Date of birth : Born as Karunakara Shetty Alias B.K. Karuna on 2 January 1940

Qualification : Diploma in Designs & Development Mechanical (1958)

BK Karuna Bhai worked as Supervisor at Hindustan Machine Tools, Bangalore till 1967, after which he ran his own business until 1971. He came into contact with the Brahma Kumaris in 1960 and decided to dedicate his life to their teachings and services the same year. He pioneered the expansion of spiritual services of the Brahma Kumaris in all parts of South India: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.

His love for writing proved to be a valuable asset in spreading spiritual knowledge: As early as 1960, he began writing articles for the local newspaper and later on started his own printing press, ‘Sachi Gita Printers’. Published several spiritual book in Kannada and a fortnightly magazine called ‘Gyan Vigyan’.

A linguist in 13 languages, he was invited in 1971 to stay at the Brahma Kumaris Headquarters in Rajasthan as Public Relations Officer to assist in administration and service projects. Simultaneously, he held positions as Special Correspondent for the Rajasthan Patrika (1975) and United News of India (UNI) from 1976-1996.

He has been able to introduce a vast range of technical equipment and the latest technology not only at the various campuses at the headquarters, but in many of its branches around India and overseas too.

His practice of Rajyoga Meditation and inculcation of spiritual values and lifestyle since 70 plus years have made him an effective spiritual teacher and guide to many individuals from different professional backgrounds. Despite being connected with the most rapidly changing and progressive areas of life (Media & Technology), his complete focus on spiritual goals helps him to maintain a balanced mind, creative and visionary intellect, and successful relations.

An eloquent speaker, he has given hundreds of lectures on values and spirituality at conferences, retreats, and training programmes conducted yearly by the Brahma Kumaris at their Headquarters. His life is the epitome of dedication, selflessness and commitment towards self and world transformation. His knowledge of balancing Science and Spirituality, and unshakeable faith in the Supreme Being, continues to take him to newer realms of wisdom and experience.

He has also been instrumental in inspiring hundreds of youth to take to a life of spirituality, and further dedicate their energies, skills and talents towards creating a successful life (with the balance of Spirituality and Professionalism) for themselves, and serving society altruistically.

Present Assignment :
● Member of Managing Committee of Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya, Mount Abu
● Director of Public Relations and Chief of Multimedia for the Brahma Kumaris Int HQ
● Secretary of Raja Yoga Education & Research Foundation (RERF)
● Chairperson of Media Wing (RERF)
● Founder and Head of Peace of Mind TV Channel
● Secretary of Radio Madhuban Community Society
● Director of Radio Madhuban 90.4FM since 2011
● India Coordinator for BK Global IT, Video and Public Relations

Honours & Awards:

1. June 2003: The short documentary, “Discover the Spirit Within” produced by him was honoured with Award of Excellence, by RAPA

2. 2004: Accorded an international award for Mass Communication and Spiritual Development by UNO-2004.

3. April 2010: Awarded the Chanakya Award 2010 Hall of fame by the Public Relations Council of India.

4. April 2015: Honoured by Bunts Organisation of Mangalore with a Gold Medal for Socio-Spiritual services rendered to society.