Manipal, June 21, 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, celebrated the International Day of Yoga on Saturday, June 21, 2025, under the global theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” The event was organised by the Division of Yoga, Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR), and took place at the Indoor Futsal Court, Marena Sports Complex, Manipal. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, staff, and members of the community in a spirited tribute to the timeless science of yoga.

The event commenced with a yoga practice session guided by Dr. Annapoorna K., Professor and Head, Division of Yoga, MAHE. Participants engaged in guided yoga asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques aimed at improving the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, delivered the presidential address, reflecting on India’s leadership in the global wellness movement. He emphasised, “Yoga is one of India’s greatest contributions to the world, timeless in its wisdom and more relevant today than ever before. It is our responsibility to lead with authenticity and knowledge. MAHE believes that celebrating yoga will help reaffirm this cultural legacy and inspire future generations to embrace yoga not just as a practice, but as a way of life."

The Chief Guest of the occasion, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal, addressed the audience, underscoring the importance of yoga as a transformative tool in today's fast-paced world. “In a world of endless stimulation and uncertainty, yoga provides our youth with a basis for balance, resilience, and purpose in their lives. Yoga develops not just the physical aspect of well-being but also the inner clarity and spiritual anchoring we require. As an academic institution, MAHE believes it is vital to integrate such timeless disciplines into modern education to shape not only capable professionals, but also centred and conscious individuals,” the Vice Chancellor remarked.

Adding to the significance of the occasion, Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor – Health Sciences, MAHE, Manipal, shared his thoughts on the broader role of yoga in health education. “Health education should extend beyond textbooks; it should also encompass practices that promote self-care, rather than just treating illness. Yoga helps build that foundation of awareness and balance. It is important to value both scientific knowledge and practices that promote overall balance and resilience. Today’s event was a meaningful reminder of that.”

Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Manipal, presented the certificates to the winners of yoga competitions conducted in the lead-up to the event. This was followed by a felicitation ceremony led by Mrs. Indira Ballal, philanthropist, Manipal, and Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor - Health Sciences, MAHE, Manipal, honouring those individuals who had made significant contributions to promote yoga.

A captivating yoga demonstration by M.Sc. Yoga Therapy students showcased the therapeutic and scientific dimensions of yoga, offering a fitting finale to the event.

On the occasion, Dr. Ganesh Bhat, Dr. Prasanna Hedge, Mrs. Akhila Shetty, Dr. Namitha Rao, and Mrs. Swati Pai were felicitated for their exceptional contributions to the field of yoga.

Dr. Lavya Shetty, Assistant Professor, Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (Yoga), gracefully compered the ceremony.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Neetina Kumar J Patil, Assistant Professor, Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (Yoga), reiterating MAHE’s dedication to supporting the global movement of yoga for a healthier, more harmonious future.