Kolkata: More than 7,000 people across 12 states and over 30 cities took part in the Vishwa Shanti Yatra 2026, organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhyatmik Samiti (ABAS), with the message of inner peace and universal harmony.
The nationwide campaign brought together people from different age groups, professions, communities and cultural backgrounds. Peace walks, human chains, placard campaigns, dialogues and other activities were held across participating cities.
The central theme of the yatra was “Antarik Shanti Se Vishwa Shanti” (From Inner Peace to World Peace). Organisers said the initiative aimed to encourage individuals to view peace not only as a responsibility of governments and societies but also as something that begins at the individual level.
The campaign was built around the message “I Am Peace”, inspired by Prem Avaatar Maitreya Dadashreeji. A World Peace Prayer was also launched during the initiative with the blessings of Maitreya Dadashreeji.
According to ABAS, the campaign brought together participants representing different languages, traditions and cultural practices while focusing on a common message of peace and human unity.
The movement also saw participation beyond India, with organisers claiming involvement from more than 23 countries and 100 cities worldwide.
Speaking about the initiative, Mitra Prawesh, General Secretary of Akhil Bharatiya Adhyatmik Samiti, said the yatra reflected India’s tradition of bringing diverse communities together.
“From one corner of the nation to another, people have come together and walked together with one intention — peace. When inner peace becomes the foundation of our thoughts, words and actions, it naturally begins to touch our families, communities and the world,” Prawesh said.
The organisers described the yatra as non-political and faith-neutral, saying that participation was open to people irrespective of their religion, profession, age, community or background.
The Vishwa Shanti Yatra concluded with a broader call for people to adopt the message “I Choose Peace, I Am Peace”, with organisers positioning the initiative as a public expression of unity amid India’s social and cultural diversity.
