From late September to early November, Maharaji traveled India to speak about a very fundamental subject: peace. With the help of volunteers, formerly spare grounds were made festive with garlands, fabric and dyed powders, giving each event a feeling of joy and celebration.

Hyderabad — September 29, 2011

In preparation, the grounds are decorated by hand.

Brightly dyed powders form intricate patterns.

People grab every seat that they can, whether natural or man-made.

Many of his remarks seem to have a remarkable response.

Laughter ripples through the crowd.

Delhi — October 2, 2011

Vividly colored flags mark the landscape.

Maharaji uses an expressive gesture to illustrate his point.

A man reacts warmly to what was said.

Every square foot of space is occupied.

The night ends with celebratory song and dance. Many in the audience stand up to participate.

Kolkata — October 8, 2011

People begin to file into the auditorium.

Soon every chair is taken.

Maharaji teasingly addresses the crowd.

Both the audience and the speaker seem to be in high spirits.

Arms almost intertwine as people stand to cheer.

Mumbai — October 11, 2011

Preparations have begun for the event.

Guests arrive by bus, bicycle, motorcycle, taxi… every means imaginable.

What used to be an empty patch of land is suddenly thronged with people.

Quieter moments provoke serious contemplation.

Some have the chance to speak with him.

Delhi — November 7 and 8, 2011

A two-day celebration is about to begin. Some have decorated themselves with henna to mark the occasion.

Musicians take the stage...

...and many in the audience rise to dance.

When Maharaji begins speaking, the rowdiness dies down. People listen attentively.

Maharaji seems to be as joyful as the crowd.