Situated in the heart of Bengaluru, Ashirvad has been a centre of dialogue, spirituality, and harmony for people of all faiths. True to its name, which means “blessing,” Ashirvad has enriched the city through its commitment to interreligious understanding and spiritual collaboration.

In 1975, the Karnataka Jesuits, who were predominantly engaged in the ministry of education, felt the need to diversify their apostolic outreach. This vision led to the establishment of Ashirvad as an Interfaith Dialogue Centre, with Fr. Ronnie Prabhu, SJ, serving as its first Director.

Since its inception, Ashirvad has been actively promoting interreligious dialogue and spiritual enrichment through a variety of programmes and initiatives. Regular bi-monthly prayer gatherings bring together people of different faith traditions in a spirit of peace and mutual respect. A dedicated study group also meets twice a month to explore the lives and teachings of saints and mystics from various religions, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse spiritual traditions.

Among its significant spiritual initiatives is the annual weekend residential retreat conducted in serene and prayerful settings such as Dhyanashrama and the Benedictine Monastery. These retreats provide participants an opportunity for reflection, silence, and spiritual renewal.

Ashirvad also conducts educational and formation programmes for students, teachers, and collaborators from schools and colleges. These include programmes on understanding religions, spiritual training sessions, student retreats, Jesuit Collaborators (JESCOL) programmes, and counselling services.

The Centre for Social Concern, one of the more recent initiatives of the Karnataka Jesuit Province, was also established at Ashirvad, with Fr. Jerald D’Souza, SJ, as its first Director. Through this initiative, Ashirvad extends its mission to social awareness, justice, and community engagement.

Today, Ashirvad continues to serve as a vibrant space for dialogue, spirituality, formation, and social commitment, contributing meaningfully to harmony and understanding in society.