Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jun 21: “Yoga benefits one in controlling the mind, thereby helping to control the entire body,” said Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor of MAHE, Manipal.
The Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR) at MAHE celebrated International Yoga Day with the theme of ‘Yoga for Self and Society’ at the Indoor Futsal Court, Marena Sports Complex, Manipal on June 21. Dr H S Ballal highlighted the significance of the occasion, stating, “Today we are celebrating the 10th International Yoga Day. Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years. While not all asanas can be practiced in old age, breathing exercises like Pranayama can be practiced at any time. Yoga is gaining popularity worldwide, and I encourage everyone to practice Pranayama to improve their quality of life.”
Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, pro vice-chancellor of the Faculty of Health Science at MAHE, remarked, “The word 'yoga' is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’, which means ‘to join’. Yoga unites mental, physical, and emotional health, and also encompasses spiritual well-being. June 21 is celebrated as International Yoga Day because it is the longest day of the year, with the sun rising at 6 am and setting at 7 pm, giving us 18 hours of daylight. Let yoga become a part of our daily lives.”
Dr Annapoorna K, professor and HOD, and a yoga instructor, in her opening remarks, stated, “Yoga Day is celebrated to bring the right awareness about yoga. Yoga offers numerous health benefits and promises something beyond other practices; it provides techniques to rest our ego.” She elaborated on various events organized over the past two months in accordance with the yoga day protocol.
On this occasion, Lakshmi Divakar, a yoga therapist from Dhyana Mandira Udupi, and Vanitha Pai, an Iyengar yoga instructor, were felicitated for their significant contributions to the field of yoga.
Lakshmi Divakar expressed her gratitude to her colleagues and stated that yoga, which was initially her chosen path, has now become an integral part of her life.
Vanitha Pai, while expressing her thanks for the recognition, said, “Iyengar yoga uses props to aid in practicing yoga. Those who practice yoga regularly do not face health issues. Yoga teaches us to cure what cannot be endured.” She shared a personal experience, stating, “I once underwent a surgery that typically takes an hour, but in my case, it took only 20 minutes because my muscles and tissues were healthy due to my regular yoga practice. Yoga is much more than just physical postures.”
The event began with the practice of yoga asana guided by Annapoorna, after which a formal event was held. The formal event began with a prayer song and lighting of a ceremonial lamp.
The winners of various competitions held on the occasion of Yoga Day were awarded.
Students of CIMR demonstrated various yoga asanas.
Dr Lavya Shetty and Divya presided over the programme. Dr Sathish Rao, director of research, welcomed the gathering. Dr Neetinakumar Patil, associate professor, proposed the vote of thanks.
Indira Ballal, philanthropist, Manipal, Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar MAHE, Manipal, Sathish U Pai, Manipal Group and others were present.