Dr. Markandey Rai, Chairman of GPF India, leads a dialogue circle for young leaders.
In a world increasingly challenged by mental health crises and identity conflicts, the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) India hosted a powerful Youth Circle Dialogue aimed at fostering self-awareness, emotional well-being, and sustainable coexistence. Held on April 7, 2025, at the GPF India Office Conference Hall in New Delhi, the event gathered 15 passionate youth participants for a transformative conversation on the intersection of mental health, personal development, and the philosophy of co-existentialism.
Guided by the vision of “One Family under God,” the dialogue embodied GPF’s commitment to nurturing ethical global citizens and peaceful communities. The session was led by Dr. Markandey Rai, Chairman of GPF India and featured Mrs. Sunita Pathak, Founder of Stushi, a Group of Women Scholars, Aacharya and author of ‘Women as a Human’. Drawing from Madhyasth Darshan (co-existentialism), Mrs. Pathak emphasized the importance of self-trust, emotional balance, and shared responsibility as key to both personal growth and societal well-being.
Through open dialogue, Q&A sessions, and dynamic discussions, participants explored complex yet crucial topics such as identity, mental health stigma, and gender roles. Mrs. Pathak’s heartfelt appeal to harmonize with nature and live in alignment with one’s inner values resonated deeply with the audience.
Mr. Ajit Singh, a participant, highlighted the program’s relevance to future generations: “The discussions on mental health and sustainable living reaffirmed the importance of creating a balanced society for future generations.”
The event didn’t just inspire reflection but also catalyzed action. Young attendees walked away with a renewed sense of responsibility toward their own well-being and that of their communities. The conversations encouraged challenging outdated norms, embracing equitable family dynamics, and adopting sustainable lifestyle choices. In addition, the dialogue was a values-based experience, with GPF’s core principles, such as interfaith harmony, family strengthening, and service for peace, being thoughtfully woven throughout the program. The event highlighted a key focus area in GPF, “Character and Leadership Development,” reinforcing the role of youth in leading ethical transformation.
Youth in India participate in a dialogue forum hosted by GPF India.
With tangible outcomes such as greater self-awareness, stronger ethical convictions, and a desire to live in alignment with values that benefit the larger good, the dialogue promoted mental wellness as integral to leadership and highlighted environmental stewardship as a shared human duty. Participants also discussed eco-friendly living and the urgency of climate-conscious behavior.
The impact of the event was captured through participant testimonies. Dr. Surendra Pathak called it “a unique platform for bridging generations and exploring practical ways to create societal harmony,” while Dr. Vidyananda Pandey noted that the dialogue “inspired deep connections between personal growth and collective well-being.”
Now more than ever, it is essential that young people, families, educators, and community leaders step forward to champion mental health, personal growth, and sustainable living. As the world
grapples with unprecedented social and environmental challenges, initiatives like this Youth Circle Dialogue light the path toward holistic transformation, one conversation, one value, one young leader at a time.
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