Shantum Seth received the “lamp transmission” from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, who ordained him as a Dharmacharya (Teacher of the Dharma) in 2001. Since then, he has been teaching mindfulness meditation in India and across the world. Considered one of the foremost guides to the sites associated with Buddha’s life, he has been leading “In the footsteps of Buddha” pilgrimages in India and other Asian countries.
Shantum’s journey towards spirituality was punctuated by several twists and turns. After moving to England in his 20s, Shantum witnessed early financial success in the shoe business. But on the other hand, he also suffered humiliation as he was beaten thrice and spat on for his race. However, it was a near-death crash while speeding in an MG sports car at 110 miles an hour that gave him a wake-up call. “The next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital, and I actually had this feeling ‘I’m alive.’ I didn’t expect it, but the preciousness of life hit me.”
He quit his job and became a political and economic activist, but a few years down the road, he found himself burnt out. “I really didn’t know how to look after myself. I realized I better become peace than just fight for peace.” His spiritual quest took him across various traditions until he found home in Buddhism. After spending several years in close proximity with Thich Nhat Hanh, he was ordained as a 43rd Dharma teacher in the Plum Village Zen Tradition, henceforth dedicating his life to spreading mindfulness and engaged Buddhism.
Shantum is the Founder of Ahimsa Trust, a volunteer-driven non-profit organization aiming to bring mindfulness into education and culture and to promote sustainable livelihoods. He is also the founder of 11 Directions, a pioneer in spiritual tourism in India, that also offers "In the Footsteps of the Buddha" pilgrimage. These trips go beyond visiting sacred sites; and are meant to catalyze an inner journey in outer spaces. He has also led private sessions and tours for individuals such as Drew Barrymore, Sting and Dua Lipa.
Shantum’s commitment to a cross-cultural understanding, with a mission of "Peace in Oneself, Peace in the World" has led him to travel to more than 65 countries and in nearly every state of India. As a cultural interpreter, he brings to life the intricate nuances of Indian history, culture, and politics, tracing Buddhism's origin, decline, and recent revival; while also delving into the lives of those left behind by India's rapid economic growth, particularly women and Dalits, painting vivid pictures of their realities while emphasizing the importance of inner cultivation.
Beyond his work guiding pilgrimages, Seth has been a Senior Advisor to the World Bank and has advised the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Shantum has contributed to a number of books including Walking with the Buddha, Planting Seeds… Sharing Mindfulness with Children, and Volunteers Against Conflict. He has also been a consultant on films including "Life of the Buddha" by BBC/Discovery, and "The Story of India" made by BBC/PBS. He and his work have been featured in The New York Times, Newsweek, and National Geographic, besides many other publications in India.
Shantum studied at The Doon School and St. Stephen’s College in India, and then graduated in Development Studies with his thesis in Gandhian Economics from the University of East Anglia while also graduating in Footwear Technology and Management in Leicester, England. Having lived in England, the USA and France (at Plum Village Monastery) for over 14 years, Shantum is now living with his wife, Gitanjali, and daughters in Dehradun, in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas.
Join us for a dialogue with this pilgrimage guide and meditation teacher on August 17th, in conversation with Navin Amarasuriya and Meghna Banker.
