Manipal Academy of Higher Education Celebrates International Day of Yoga 2024

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) celebrated the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2024, with the theme "Yoga for Self and Society." The event was coordinated by the Division of Yoga, Centre for Integrative Medicine & Research (CIMR), and witnessed the participation of 350 students, staff, faculty, and local community members.

The celebration began with a yoga practice session at the Indoor Futsal Court, Marena Sports Complex, Manipal, at 8:00 AM. The session was led by Dr. Annapoorna K., Head of the Division of Yoga, CIMR. Participants engaged in a range of yogic practices following the UGC protocol, including various asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques.

Following the yoga practice, a stage programme commenced at 9:00 AM at the same venue. The event was hosted by Dr. Lavya Shetty, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Divya Poojary, PG Student. Distinguished guests included Dr. HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE; Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Health Sciences; Shri T. Satish U. Pai, Executive Chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd and Vice President, Academy of General Education; Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE; Mrs. Indira Ballal, Philanthropist; and Dr. Satish Rao, Director Research, MAHE & Director, Manipal School of Life Sciences.

The programme began with an invocation by Dr. Athmika Shetty, followed by a welcome address from Dr. B.S. Satish Rao. Dr. Annapoorna K. provided an overview of the activities and competitions held over the past three months, emphasizing the importance of yoga for holistic health and well-being. Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao highlighted the significance of the International Day of Yoga, urging daily yoga practice. Certificates and prizes for various yoga competitions were distributed by Dr. P. Giridhar Kini. The event included the felicitation of notable individuals by Mrs. Indira Ballal.

Dr. HS Ballal delivered the presidential address, underscoring the benefits of asanas and pranayama. The event concluded with a yoga demonstration by M.Sc. Yoga Therapy students. The celebration was organized under the leadership of Dr. B.S. Satish Rao and Dr. Annapoorna K., with contributions from the teaching and non-teaching staff of the Division of Yoga, CIMR, and M.Sc. Yoga Therapy students. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Neetinakumar J Patil, Associate Professor, Division of Yoga, CIMR, MAHE.