Peacebuilding Thought Leadership
In 2018, Mandar founded Cities4Peace – a strategic consultancy of the Art of Living Foundation dedicated to promoting peace and social cohesion in cities worldwide. A few examples of our work are:
- Enabled greater trust between community members and LAPD officers
- Deepened social cohesion between war torn communities of Turkish and Greek Cypriots
- Enhanced mental wellbeing of violence interventionists in LA County
Based on his work, Mandar was:
- Appointed as an Advisor to a special UN Peacebuilding project, to encourage business to invest in peacebuilding.
- Invited to speak on acclaimed podcasts including Ranveer Show Beer Biceps, Vaicharik Kida, Swayam Talks, etc.
- Invited to contribute for Observer Research Foundation, a prominent think tank in India
Innovating from Within Intrapreneurship
In 2012, Mandar influenced Shell’s CEO Peter Voser to launch Shell’s GameChanger social innovation program – a pioneering initiative investing in sustainable solutions that create shared value – both social impact and business returns. Through the portfolio of investments we showcased how brands can go beyond strategic philanthropy and CSR.
In partnership with the TLEX institute, we designed and delivered EMPOWER – an innovation learning program for over 2,000 Shell colleagues using meditation practices. For this work, Mandar was awarded the Ashoka League of Intrapreneurs award for an innovative approach to organizational development.
Alignment Inner & Outer Purpose
For over two decades, I’ve studied, practiced, and taught meditation that I have learned directly from Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
Intimate conversations with Gurudev have helped me discover healing, solace and transformation and made me realize that enabling greater ‘inner wellbeing’ can transform our external realities both in personal and professional life.
Since 2004, I’ve taught Art of Living yoga, breath, and meditation practices to thousands of people worldwide, from all socio-economic backgrounds. Teaching these programs has made me realize that the whole world is indeed a One World Family!
Storytelling for Social Change
In 2017, I launched ChooseLove Media to produce stories that will elevate the human spirit.
Our first documentary film ‘From India With LoveTM’– showcases the transformational experiences of survivors of violence from across America during their sojourn to India.
The film is based on my conviction that “If the whole world is a home, India has always been the prayer room.”
The film was converted into ‘Be The Change’ an educational module to teach peace and mental well-being.
An Invitation to Collaborate
We stand at a critical moment in history—where leadership is no longer just about managing but transforming. In a world fractured by uncertainty, conflict, and polarization, purpose-driven leaders have the power to inspire and reimagine possibility.
Drawing from over two decades of working with diverse organizations like Shell, United Nations, and City of Los Angeles, I’ve discovered how purpose-driven strategies can unlock human potential, bridge divides, and create lasting impact.
If you’re a leader committed to turning challenges into breakthrough opportunities—ready to transform your organization’s purpose into a catalyst for positive impact—let’s connect and make it happen together.