The world's attention will converge on Washington D.C. from September 29th to October 1st, 2023, as the iconic National Mall plays host to the fourth edition of the Art of Living's World Culture Festival. This celebration of diversity and unity promises to be a global spectacle, uniting over 100 countries and half a million participants under the banner of "One World Family."
Set against the iconic backdrop of the US Capitol, the World Culture Festival is set to make history with its grandeur and significance. The event will feature an expansive stage, equivalent in size to a football field, and a gathering of 17,000 artists, heads of states, and thought leaders from around the globe.
Dignitaries gracing the occasion include esteemed individuals like H.E. Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations; H.E. S. Jaishankar, Honorable Minister of External Affairs of India; Hon. Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General; Hon. Rick Scott, US Senator; Hon. Nancy Pelosi, and H.E. Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Former President of India, among others.
The festival's diverse array of performances will captivate audiences, featuring over 50 acts that transcend borders and cultures. Highlights include a traditional Chinese cultural performance with 1,000 singers and dancers, a Garba extravaganza with 7,000 dancers, a breathtaking showcase of 700 Indian classical dancers accompanied by a live symphony, and a special tribute to the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop by legendary artists.
The event will also see the recreation of Bob Marley's iconic "One Love" by his grandson, Skip Marley, alongside other memorable performances. Notably, the festival will host a massive collaboration of over 1,000 guitarists led by Grammy Award winner Micki Free, as well as 100 Ukrainian dancers performing their traditional Hopak dance.
The National Mall, the historic venue for the festival, holds significant symbolic value. It was here that Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his renowned "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963, advocating for equality and unity. Similarly, in 1893, Swami Vivekananda addressed the World's Parliament of Religions in Chicago, championing the end of religious bigotry and intolerance, emphasising that all people are brothers and sisters.
Founder of the Art of Living- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Telegraph Online
On September 29th, 2023, at the National Mall, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the founder of the Art of Living, will carry forward this legacy of unity. Under the theme of "One World Family," individuals from 180 countries will be united, transcending boundaries, religions, and races.The festival will also cater to the gastronomic senses of its participants, showcasing cuisines from around the world. What distinguishes this festival is its commitment to providing emerging artists and performers with a platform to showcase their talents.
