Mumbai,: Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institution, India’s oldest institute of yoga (est.1917), today joined celebrations of the International Day of Yoga as declared by 
the United Nations with a goal to respect the essence of the practice and promote its principles, with practice sessions for new and experienced yoga students across the city.
8 times national swimming champion, Arjuna Awardee and Olympian swimmer Rehan Poncha, one of India’s finest athletes, was guest of honour at the event along with actor Elli Avram, who is an ardent yoga practitioner. The two joined Vice Chancellor Dr. Rajan Welukar and Kaivalyadham chairperson Subodh Tiwari in lighting the lamp and beginning celebrations. An inspiring address to the students by each of the guests had students very motivated towards a daily, disciplined practice.
Said Dr. Tiwari, “Kaivalyadham is a pioneering institute in research, training and therapy in Yoga. Yoga is India’s cultural heritage and through these celebrations, we hope to encourage individuals to be more aware of one’s own self at the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level. Through this day we ignite the flame of Yoga in the hearts of many, those who have not yet experienced the bliss of practice.”
Rehan Poncha said, “In competitive sport both flexibility and strength is needed – mentally and physically. A regular practice of yoga can provide the foundation for both, and must be encouraged. A lot of university and international athletics programmes have embraced Yoga as part of their regular curriculum and this is something India has gifted the world.”
Elli Avram added, “I have always had an athletic background, and was a professional figure skater before entering Bollywood. Since I came to India, I have been practicing Yoga and would recommend it to every single person. It is a very effective way to sculpt the body, build flexibility and gain mental strength.”
The celebrations across the city had two components:
Practice of Asana, Pranayama and Dharana: This segment included the practice of selected asanas for general health, well-being and self awareness together with simple pranayama and concentration of the mind. This module has been developed by the Ministry of AYUSH, in consultation with all the Yoga institutes in the country.
Understanding the philosophy: This segment focuses on the philosophy of Yoga, its understanding and experience. This discussion will be with experts from the field, who can make it relevant for the participant in today’s perspective.
In addition to the University of Mumbai, Kailvayadham organized practice sessions of both components of the celebration across 20 locations in the city including:
Kaivalyadhama ICYHC, Marine Drive – open for all
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Navy Nagar – for staff and family
Indian Posts, GPO, Fort – for staff and family
Cricket Club of India (CCI), Brabourne Stadium – for members
Bombay Electrical Supply and Transportation (BEST), Dindoshi Marg – for staff and family
Mumbai Prison, Byculla, – for prisoners and staff
State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), Goregaon – for staff
Tata Group of companies – for staff and family
Indian Coast Guard – for staff and family
Central Railways – for staff and family
Western Railways – for staff and family
Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Thane – for staff and family
SNDT Women’s University, Churchgate – for students and staff
Indian Navy, Navy Nagar – for staff and family
King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, Parel – for staff and patients
Lal Baug Cha Raja – for members and family
Raj Bhavan, Governer’s House – for staff and family
University of Mumbai, Kalina indoor stadium – open for all.
Source : Sachin Murdeshwar