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The International Day of Yoga, a celebration recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, unfolded on Saturday, marking a harmonious confluence of India's spiritual traditions and its rich architectural legacy. The event, now in its eleventh edition, was observed at several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Keshava temple at Somanathapur in the Mysuru district, the Hoysaleshwara temple complex at Halebid in the Hassan district, and the Dariya Daulat Bagh, the summer palace of Tipu Sultan, in Srirangapatna, Mandya district. These locations, each representing a distinct era and style of Indian architecture, provided a stunning backdrop for the practice of yoga, emphasizing the deep connection between physical well-being, cultural preservation, and spiritual growth. The selection of these sites underscores the notion that yoga is not merely a physical exercise but an integral part of India's cultural identity, deeply intertwined with its history and artistic achievements. The celebration at these heritage sites served as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of yoga in modern society, its ability to promote holistic wellness, and its role in fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage. The conscious decision to host these events within spaces holding cultural significance served to further highlight the intangible value of Yoga in the contemporary epoch, bringing an awareness to the connection between body, mind, and spirit. This is especially important when the world is facing the multiple challenges of modern living, including lifestyle-related illnesses and stress. The celebrations not only promoted physical fitness but also encouraged reflection on the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. Furthermore, the integration of yoga into these historical settings emphasized the timeless nature of this ancient practice, reinforcing its significance as a living tradition that continues to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted in its cultural origins. The participation of a diverse range of individuals, from students to government officials, further highlighted the inclusive nature of yoga and its ability to transcend social and cultural barriers, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
The event at Somanathapur was particularly striking, with the 13th-century Keshava temple serving as a majestic backdrop for the yoga sessions. The temple, built during the Hoysala period, is renowned for its ornate sculptures and unique architectural style, providing a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting environment for the participants. Approximately 750 individuals participated in the event, which was organized under the supervision of staff from the Regional Institute of Education, Mysuru, and representatives from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The collaboration between educational institutions and cultural heritage organizations underscored the importance of integrating yoga into educational programs and promoting cultural awareness among students. Similarly, the Yoga Day celebration at the Halebid museum premises within the Hoysaleshwara temple complex offered another opportunity to experience yoga in a historically significant setting. The Hoysaleshwara temple complex, a testament to the artistic prowess of the Hoysala dynasty, provided a serene and contemplative environment for the practice of yoga. The intricate carvings and architectural details of the temple served as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the region and the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations. The presence of both ASI representatives and educational personnel at these events emphasizes the interdisciplinary approach to understanding and promoting the benefits of yoga. It is also reflective of the current trends where the preservation of the tangible heritage is being understood through the lens of intangible cultural practices that contribute to its significance and meaning. The collaboration between different stakeholders underscores the importance of fostering a holistic approach to cultural preservation, recognizing the interconnectedness of tangible and intangible heritage. The success of these events also highlights the potential for using heritage sites as venues for promoting health and well-being, attracting tourists, and fostering a sense of local pride and identity. It is a powerful combination of traditions and history to benefit physical and mental health.
In Srirangapatna, the Yoga Day event took place in the sprawling gardens of Dariya Daulat Bagh, a protected monument under the ASI. This summer palace of Tipu Sultan provided a contrasting yet equally compelling setting for the yoga sessions. MLA Ramesh Bandisidde Gowda and ASI official A. Sunil led the event, which saw the participation of nearly 350 individuals, including students from Government PU College and St. Mary’s High School. The involvement of local political figures and educational institutions highlighted the community-wide support for yoga and its importance in promoting health and well-being among students. Mr. Sunil also mentioned that arrangements were made for viewing the Yoga Day celebrations led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Vishakapatnam on giant LCD screens. This allowed participants to connect with the larger national and global celebration of yoga, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. The yoga performance commenced soon after and followed the common yoga protocol issued by the Ministry of Ayush, ensuring that the sessions were conducted in accordance with established guidelines and best practices. The incorporation of technology to showcase national celebrations served as a powerful tool in fostering awareness and encouraging participation, especially among younger generations. It further emphasized the role of technology in promoting cultural events and facilitating global connections. This aspect of the celebration highlights the way in which traditional practices and modern technologies can come together to create a more inclusive and accessible platform for participation. The event also reinforced the message that yoga is not just a physical activity but a way of life, promoting a holistic approach to health and well-being.
The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga was ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health,’ reflecting the growing awareness of the interconnectedness between human health, environmental sustainability, and global well-being. This theme underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach to health, recognizing that individual well-being is inextricably linked to the health of the planet. Apart from yoga in heritage sites, the event was organized across the region, including in educational and government institutions, ensuring widespread participation and promoting the benefits of yoga to a diverse audience. In Mandya, the district administration conducted the event at the PET cricket grounds, further demonstrating the commitment of local authorities to promoting yoga and its health benefits. Deputy Commissioner Kumar emphasized that India has become synonymous with yoga, describing it as a slice or a symbol of the country’s culture. He underlined the importance of incorporating yoga into one’s lifestyle to reap its health benefits, reinforcing the message that yoga is not just a one-day event but a continuous practice that can enhance overall well-being. The emphasis on the theme, ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’, is a clear indication of the growing awareness of global interconnectedness and the need for sustainable practices. This holistic approach aligns with the principles of yoga, which emphasize harmony and balance, not only within the individual but also between the individual and the environment. Therefore, the celebrations further reinforce the role of yoga as a tool for promoting environmental stewardship and global citizenship. By adopting such an approach, the focus extends beyond individual health and well-being, acknowledging that the health of the planet is intrinsically linked to the health of its inhabitants.
Purushotamananda Swami of Adi Chunchanagiri Mutt Educational Trust stressed that yoga should not be confined to one day in a year but should be part of one’s lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of making yoga a regular practice to experience its full benefits. Trinetra Mahant Shivayogi of Chandravan Ashram added that Yoga Day was an Indian festival celebrated across the world, highlighting the global reach and impact of yoga as a cultural export. The Yoga Day was also celebrated at various places in Chamarajanagar and Kodagu districts, further demonstrating the widespread adoption and acceptance of yoga across the region. The messages from spiritual leaders served to reinforce the philosophical underpinnings of yoga, emphasizing its role in cultivating inner peace, self-awareness, and spiritual growth. These perspectives underscore the holistic nature of yoga, recognizing that its benefits extend beyond the physical realm to encompass mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The participation of these leaders also lends credibility to the celebrations, reaffirming the role of yoga as a spiritual practice rooted in ancient traditions. The fact that Yoga Day is celebrated not only in India but across the world indicates its global appeal and its ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. This underscores the role of yoga as a tool for promoting intercultural understanding and global harmony. In conclusion, the International Day of Yoga celebrations in Karnataka showcased the harmonious blend of cultural heritage and spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of yoga in promoting individual and collective well-being. The events served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of yoga in modern society, its ability to foster a sense of unity and shared heritage, and its role in promoting a healthier and more sustainable world. The integration of yoga into heritage sites and educational institutions underscored the importance of integrating yoga into daily life and fostering cultural awareness, ensuring that the benefits of yoga are accessible to all.
Source: Yoga Day marks confluence of cultural and architectural heritage