In a significant gathering of yoga enthusiasts and experts, Dr H R Nagendra, the President of Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA) University, emphasized the crucial role of dedication and physical efforts in the practice of yoga. The remarks were made during the inauguration of the two-day International Yoga Conference held at the Sakal Lalit Kalaghar, Mukundnagar, as part of the centenary year celebration of Maharashtriya Mandal.
The conference, organized by Maharashtriya Mandal’s Chandrashekhar Agashe College of Physical Education in association with Yoga and Ayurveda Prabodhini and The Physical Education Foundation of India, gathered renowned dignitaries such as Dr Ananda Balyogi Bhavanani, Dr Manmath Gharote, Air Marshal (Retd.) Bhushan Gokhale, and others.
Dr H R Nagendra expressed his belief that the inclusion of yoga in competitive sports, and the dream of Swami Ramdev to include it in the Olympics, will elevate the global recognition of yoga. He urged pride in India’s contribution to the world through the ancient practice of yoga, emphasizing its impact on physical fitness, mental stability, and holistic development.
Highlighting the importance of physical education, Dr. Nagendra commended Maharashtriya Mandal’s foresight in recognizing this need a century ago. He stressed the need for further propagation of physical education at all levels of the education system.
In his address, Dr Nagendra underscored the transformative journey that yoga offers from physical exertion to relaxation. He lamented the detachment of Indians from the ancient knowledge system of yoga due to changes in the education system but expressed optimism in reinstating its importance globally.
Air Marshal (Retd.) Bhushan Gokhale emphasized the significance of including yoga in astronaut training as India gears up for human space missions.
Dr Ananda Balyogi Bhavanani called for a deeper understanding of the yoga culture created by ancient Rishis, urging the teaching of yoga to future generations for a healthier lifestyle. He highlighted the therapeutic aspects of yoga, with meditation as a crucial healing practice.
Dr Manmath Gharote lamented the modern focus on the physical aspects of yoga, emphasizing its roots in thoughts and the need to overcome psychosomatic disorders through yoga.
In conclusion, the International Yoga Conference served as a platform to delve into the intricate connection between the mat (yoga mat) and the mind, echoing the importance of dedication, physical efforts, and the holistic benefits of yoga in the modern world.
