150th World Peace Tree planted by Vishwaguruji in OM Ashram
On the occasion of the 70th Republic Day of India, celebrating India's independence since 1949, Vishwaguruji planted the 150th World Peace Tree, a sacred Banyan tree, on the top of the hill in the OM Ashram site.
The Banyan tree is the national tree of India, and revered as holy in Hindu mythology. The tree is said to be a Kalpa Vriksha or 'tree of wish fulfillment'. It is associated with longevity and has important medicinal properties. For centuries, the Banyan tree has been a central gathering point for the rural village communities of India, due to its expansive form and the shade it provides. It is also a habitat for a large number of other creatures. Its life is very long and therefore it is often said to be an 'immortal' tree.
Tree planting in OM Ashram, Jadan, India
One of the first World Peace Tree planting ceremonies in which Vishwaguruji participated, was on 1 June 1997, at the Global Forum of Spiritual and Parliamentary Leaders for the Survival of Mankind in Konya, Turkey.
There followed World Peace Tree planting ceremonies in 23 countries – from Europe to USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Cuba, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and India – photos from some of these occasions are featured below.
