Surat, Gujarat, witnessed a vibrant celebration of Yoga during the 'Yoga Mahotsav,' marking the 50th Countdown to the International Day of Yoga-2024. The event, held at the Police Parade Ground in Athwalines, drew a massive crowd of over seven thousand eager participants. They gathered in unison, practicing the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) from 7.00 AM on May 02, 2024, showcasing their enthusiasm for Yoga's profound impact on personal and societal well-being.
In his address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, praised Surat for its contribution to the nation, noting its recognition as the cleanest city in India. He expressed delight at the disciplined presence of attendees, highlighting Yoga's global appeal and the anticipated increase in participation for IDY 2024. He announced a major event in Bodhgaya to mark the 25th countdown to IDY 2024, emphasizing Yoga's universal significance.
Vaidya Kotecha recalled the United Nations' declaration of June 21st as International Day of Yoga in 2015, emphasizing its role in raising awareness about Yoga's benefits worldwide. He praised the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga for producing skilled yoga masters who promote Yoga's physical, mental, and spiritual harmony across India and beyond.
Prof. Avinash Chandra Pandey, Director of the Inter-University Accelerator Centre in New Delhi, stressed the importance of making Yoga accessible to every household, recognizing its potential to improve humanity's well-being universally. Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), highlighted Yoga Mahotsav's role in promoting universal Yoga practice, emphasizing its significance in the lead-up to IDY-2024.
The event, organized by MDNIY in collaboration with the Gujarat Yog Board, featured a live demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol, showcasing the expertise of Yoga practitioners. It was attended by dignitaries including Shri Satyajit Paul, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Ayush, and Shri Anupam Singh Gahlaut, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Surat. Their presence highlighted a shared commitment to promoting Yoga for holistic well-being.
The Ministry of Ayush, along with MDNIY, is conducting a '100 Days, 100 Cities, and 100 Organizations' campaign to commemorate IDY-2024. This initiative aims to promote Yoga in collaboration with various stakeholders, including schools, universities, corporate bodies, and states/union territories. Paramilitary personnel play a crucial role in propagating Yoga, contributing significantly to the campaign's objectives.
The event's success was augmented by its broadcast on social media platforms, extending its reach and empowering individuals worldwide to experience Yoga's transformative power. The event highlighted the growing global enthusiasm for Yoga and its potential to foster holistic well-being.
