Article 1 Dr. Ishan Shivanand: A Mauritian at the Heart of the Maha Kumbh Mela From February 16 to 18, 2025, a Mauritian, Dr. Ishan Shivanand, will organize the largest meditation gathering in the history of the Kumbh Mela in 144 years in the sacred city of Prayagraj. With great pride, he declares, "This is a historic moment for Mauritius." The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, an event of exceptional spiritual significance, is currently unfolding in Prayagraj. This year, the atmosphere vibrates with a special energy as a sacred phenomenon, which occurs only once every 144 years, illuminates the celebrations. The banks of the Ganges River are flooded with millions of pilgrims, revered saints, eminent dignitaries, and seekers of wisdom from all over the world. At the heart of this extraordinary confluence, something unprecedented is happening—a Mauritian, Dr. Ishan Shivanand, is orchestrating the largest meditation gathering ever held in the millennia-old history of the Kumbh Mela. This mass meditation session has captivated international attention, with all available spots filling up within just five minutes, demonstrating its magnetic appeal. It represents a harmonious fusion between ancient yogic wisdom and modern scientific advancements. The event will take place from February 16 to 18, 2025, with a delegation of 1,800 participants, including 100 Mauritians. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a moment of spiritual and mental transformation. We are witnessing the birth of a true movement," states Dr. Ishan Shivanand, who shared his insights with us from India via Zoom on Wednesday. "The Kumbh Mela transcends mere spirituality," he says passionately. "It is a crucible where human beings can rediscover harmony between their body, mind, and soul—a quality that is especially crucial in today’s world." Although his roots are in India, Dr. Shivanand considers Mauritius his spiritual home, where he has dedicated himself to youth development, mental resilience, and corporate well-being. His deep connection with the island is evident in his words: "Mauritius has given me everything, except fluency in French! It is on this land that I discovered my true inner peace. The island embodies the essence of peace, love, and harmony. The Mauritian culture has deeply touched me, to the point of anchoring my life here." Now based in the United States to continue his research, Dr. Shivanand speaks with a hint of nostalgia about Mauritius: "Mauritius is my home, my heart. But research limitations forced me to expand my work abroad." A passionate researcher and educator, Dr. Shivanand has devoted his life to the study of mental well-being. He explains: "The ancient Indian system of knowledge is built on solid foundations. Our era demands increased attention to mental health and resilience. Inner transformation must become a societal priority because, by cultivating balance in individuals, we create collective well-being." His leading role in this event is not only a personal achievement but also a historic moment for Mauritius. He emphasizes with conviction: "We are not just sharing a practice; we are igniting a movement capable of transforming humanity through inner peace." The Maha Kumbh Mela, a spiritual magnet, attracts over 100 million people. Guiding such a massive collective experience fills Dr. Shivanand with pride: "The Kumbh Mela is truly a crucible of spiritual purification," he says with emotion. --- His Achievements Wellness Training for Global Giants Dr. Ishan Shivanand has conducted wellness training programs for some of the world’s most powerful organizations, including: Google, Facebook, Boeing, Amazon, and Bank of America. International Recognition Recipient of the Bharat Gaurav Award, awarded by the Indian Parliamentary Board for his innovative research in meditation and mental well-being. Recognized by the White House for his contributions to mental health and non-pharmaceutical interventions. Wellness consultant for prestigious institutions such as: Mayo Clinic MD Anderson Cancer Center University of Cincinnati Professor and researcher at: Silicon Andhra University Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical School Sri Jayadeva Institute “Ishan Shivanand Day” officially proclaimed in Brooklyn (New York) and Cincinnati (Ohio). Recognition in Mauritius Dr. Shivanand’s contributions to Mauritius have been warmly acknowledged by several local institutions: Mauritius Ministry of Health and Wellness (2022) Mauritius Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2022) for his outstanding achievements at the international level Mauritius Sports Council (2022) Mauritius Ministry of Education (2019) Bambous Martial Arts Sports Club (2020) University of Mauritius (2018, 2022) – Letters of appreciation (2018, 2022) Through his foundation and personal initiatives, Dr. Shivanand has positively impacted students, teachers, corporate executives, and athletes. "It is a blessing to bring inner peace to individuals and see it spread to their communities. This is a lifelong journey," he says. --- Universal Integrative Health Foundation: A Global Movement for Well-Being At the core of Dr. Shivanand’s mission is the Universal Integrative Health Foundation, which he launched in Mauritius. This initiative is dedicated to mental wellness, youth empowerment, and integrating wellness practices into daily life. The foundation collaborates with: Schools, government agencies, and businesses to make its programs widely accessible. Law enforcement and NGOs, providing stress-relief meditation programs to the community. Universities and professionals, offering training in mindfulness and resilience. Dr. Shivanand’s scientifically validated meditation method, Yoga of Immortals (YOI), has already transformed lives in over 150 countries. "Global well-being begins with individual education. By transforming minds, we transform the world," he asserts. --- Scientific Discoveries: YOI & Elite Athletes' Performance One of Dr. Shivanand’s most innovative contributions is his collaboration with the Bambous Martial Arts Sports Club in Mauritius. In 2021, a group of elite athletes from the club participated in a pioneering study on the impact of Yoga of Immortals (YOI) on cognitive performance. This study was led by doctors from the University of Cincinnati and Mayo Clinic in a controlled experiment. Dr. Shivanand explains: "When the mind is at peace, the body reaches its maximum potential." Mauritius is now a key player in global advancements in neuroscience and well-being. The YOI studies revealed: 82% reduction in insomnia 72% decrease in depression 75% improvement in anxiety management 76% increase in quality of life and stress control "Well-being is not a luxury; it is a necessity," Dr. Shivanand concludes with deep conviction. --- Final Words Dr. Ishan Shivanand’s participation in the Maha Kumbh Mela is a historic moment not just for him but for Mauritius on the global stage. As a leader in meditation, neuroscience, and holistic health, his mission continues to inspire people worldwide. Article 2 RENCONTRE – SUNDAY/HEBDO Bestselling Book: The Practice of Immortality As part of his global efforts for well-being, Dr. Shivanand is also revolutionizing the field of personal development and spiritual wellness with his book The Practice of Immortality: A Monk’s Guide to Discovering Your Unlimited Potential for Health, Happiness, and Positivity. Although still available for pre-order, the book has already made it onto bestseller lists in India, highlighting the massive interest in his teachings. In this work, Dr. Shivanand shares his personal journey and explains how readers can unlock their unlimited potential by applying the methods he teaches to a wide range of audiences, from CEOs and athletes to students and veterans. Immortality is not about gaining more time but about expanding our relationship with the time we have. He defines immortality not as a mythical quest but as a mindset and a practice. Dr. Shivanand’s book invites reflection on longevity and personal transformation: "Everyone dreams of living forever, but it is essential to understand that longevity is not just about extending life but about fully living each moment," he emphasizes. What is the Maha Kumbh Mela? The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, held every 12 years in Hinduism. This event takes place in one of four sacred cities in India: Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Each time, millions of pilgrims—including saints, sadhus, ascetics, and devotees—gather in these sacred places to bathe in the rivers, believing that this purification frees them from their sins and the cycle of rebirth.