Omani man on peace mission to deliver TED talk in India

Muscat: An Omani national is looking to promote peace and understanding across the world by performing handstands in front of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Fahad Al Abri, who is the founder of Handstand Every City, made travelling to the seven wonders his 2018 New Year resolution, and will depart on his journey on March 9, his first destination being India’s Taj Mahal.
“I believe these places were named seven wonders because they stand for great civilisations and the great achievements of human beings. They are a message of inspiration, in terms of what a human being can do,” Al Abri told the Times of Oman.
“Look at the Taj Mahal, for example. It was made for personal reasons but now it is one of the best known places in the world. If you go to see the pyramids, it’ll be the same. The seven wonders show you how a human being can send his message or passion across time,” he added.
In India, Al Abri has been invited to speak and share his experiences at a TEDx event at SRM Institute of Science and Technology in New Delhi.
“The theme of TEDx talks is often the road less taken. I found out that it would allow me to give an inspiring message to people to have courage and take the path not taken before. I feel very honoured, because if I am being asked to give a TED talk, then my idea must be worth sharing,” he
remarked.
“I am sure people will ask me how many cities I have done handstands in, why I picked it as a passion, and how it has made a difference in my life. All I can say is, this is a different way of travelling, seeing the world upside down. Some people approach me to do a handstand because they want to release their inner child, others do it for philosophy or fitness,” he further said.
Al Abri said that while in Delhi, he will also promote the Sultanate’s message of cooperation and understanding.
“To be honest, I feel very honoured to be representing Oman at the TEDx event, because Oman has always been an example of promoting peace in the region. I want to promote Oman as a destination of peace, where people can travel for relaxation of mind and body. I want people to come to Oman and see how His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has made it a nation of peace, and I want to introduce people to this culture,” he said. He also encouraged people to not give up on their passion, regardless of the opinion of those around them.