Amrithagiri Himalaya (AH) and its sister concern ARSHA Trust, based atop the Chamundi Hills at Mysuru, are devoted to advancing India’s everlasting wisdom for a humanist way of development. Guided by the Upanishadic principle Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “the world is one family” – AH promotes intercultural understanding through academic and community collaborations.
ARSHA Trust conducts yoga, meditation, and spiritual heritage programmes, both online and on-site, through arshatrust.in and templeindia.com, fostering experiential learning rooted in classical Indian philosophy. AH also promotes creative writings based on Indian philosophy through its associate, Integral Books Publications, preserving the intellectual and spiritual legacy of India’s sages and seers. In association with Prof. Priyankar Upadhyaya (BHU, UNESCO Chair for Peace and Social Justice), AH contributes to peace education and value-based dialogue – integrating ethics and scholarship toward building a sympathetic society.
AH upholds Dharma and Seva as the foundations of social justice and human dignity. The organisation’s flagship initiative, the Village Sampark Program (VSP) – led by Dr. Sameer Das (Calcutta University) – serves as an interdisciplinary platform for field research, community engagement, and rural development. Through these collaborations, AH connects tribal villages, promoting education, women’s empowerment, and equitable livelihoods while preserving their indigenous identity and cultural dignity. Also supports artisans and rural entrepreneurs involved in traditional handicrafts, Rudraksha-based ornaments, and eco-friendly products, ensuring sustainable income and social visibility. In all its endeavours, AH remains a bridge between academia and the grassroots, translating the timeless values of Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah – “May all beings be happy”- into real-world action that uplifts communities and strengthens the moral fabric of society.
Education is the most powerful form of health intervention. Through its VSPs and academic collaborations, AH conducts health awareness sessions, hygiene education, and environment learning activities for children and youth. The organisation integrates traditional wisdom with modern science to cultivate lifelong habits of wellness and cleanliness. Special focus is given to girls’ education, health literacy, and skill development, ensuring equal opportunities for all. Step by step, AH gradually transforms schools and village learning spaces into social development hubs.
India’s traditional arts embody the soul of its civilization – merging devotion and creative expression. In partnership with ARSHA Trust and its network of scholars and artisans, AH works to preserve and promote these living traditions across the Himalaya.
AH supports training, documentation, and digital promotion of indigenous crafts through initiatives like Temple India (templeindia.com), providing artisans with visibility and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Special emphasis is placed on the craftsmanship of tribal and rural communities, promoting handmade, eco-friendly products.
By collaborating with cultural institutions and promoting through Integral Books Publications, AH transforms heritage preservation into a dynamic force for empowerment. Its vision is to ensure that every traditional art form continues to inspire the world – reflecting India’s timeless spirit between art, nature, and compassion.
