SRM University-AP, Amaravati, marked International Yoga Day on June 21 with a spirited celebration, as students, faculty, and staff united in a vibrant display of mindfulness and harmony. The event saw the participation of around 200 attendees and featured diverse yoga styles including fusion, micro, artistic, and group yoga sessions.
Led by Yoga instructor Ms Moni, the demonstrations were energetic and engaging, inspiring all to embrace the practice. The Directorate of Sports, under the leadership of Director Mr Anup Singh Suryavanshi, organised the event seamlessly, spreading the message of holistic wellness.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome address by Dr Sushmita Kumar, Assistant Director of Sports. She remarked, “The world is celebrating the heritage of India. Yoga reflects the timeless influence of our ancient traditions on modern life. It transcends generations and geographical boundaries, promoting awareness and physical strength. This year’s theme, Yoga for One Earth, One Health, reinforces Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—a Sanskrit phrase meaning ‘The world is one family”. This emphasises the importance of caring for ourselves and the planet alike.”
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora spoke about the deeper significance of yoga, stating, “June 21 marks an important planetary alignment where energies are high, which is why it must have been chosen for International Yoga Day. To connect with the Supreme, one must be healthy physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. True health is the alignment of all these dimensions.”
He added, “Yoga is not merely a physical exercise, it involves breathwork, emotional balance, and spiritual connection. Only when all aspects of well-being are in harmony can we live truly fulfilling lives. This alignment, in fact, is what education ultimately seeks to achieve along with intellectual and economic well-being .”
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr Satish Kumar, echoed this sentiment and described yoga as India’s timeless gift to the world, stressing that it should be a daily practice rather than an annual observance. “Thousands of years ago, Patanjali gifted us this profound practice. While other countries have brought different things to the world some positive, some harmful, India has given the world yoga: peace, culture, and a way of life. Even just 10 to 15 minutes of yoga daily can transform your well-being. Make it a part of your routine,” he urged.
Earlier in the day, Ms Moni also conducted yoga sessions at the Government High School in Neerukonda, where young students participated with enthusiasm. She further led yoga sessions for around 90 participants, including men and women from nearby villages, who actively engaged in the community-driven initiative.
