Kanpur: In anticipation of the upcoming International Day of Yoga (IDY), IIT Kanpur organized a special talk on the theme “Yoga for Environment and Health.” The event aimed to highlight the interconnection between individual well-being and environmental sustainability through the practice of yoga and naturopathy.
The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the welcoming of knowledge. The gathering brought together faculty members, students, and yoga enthusiasts to delve into the transformative power of yoga in fostering holistic health and ecological balance.
The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) K. Satya Lakshmi, Director, National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune, Prof. Suman Saurabh, Acting Dean, Students’ Affairs, Shri Ateequr Rahman, Deputy Registrar, Students’ Affairs D. C. Mishra, Assistant Registrar, Students’ Affairs, and S. L. Yadav.
Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. Suman Saurabh, addressed the attendees, sharing that the institute has actively participated in the 100-days countdown to the IDY event and organized multiple events such as two walks, two yoga sessions and one talk. “This is part of our preparation to create awareness and enthusiasm for yoga among the IITK community,” he said.
The keynote speaker, Prof. (Dr.) K. Satya Lakshmi Director National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune, provided deep insights into the upcoming International Yoga Day celebrations. She revealed that ten signature events are being planned, including Yoga Unplugged, Yoga Prabhava, and Harit Yoga — each designed to showcase different facets of yogic practice and its connection with nature. She encouraged widespread participation and emphasized the importance of integrating yoga into daily life.
Dr. Lakshmi also discussed the integral role of naturopathy in yoga. “Indian naturopathy has excelled globally, especially in its synergy with yoga. Many countries are now looking towards India to learn from these ancient practices,” she noted.
Highlighting the importance of mindful practice, she advised practitioners to perform yoga slowly and with awareness rather than in haste. She also emphasized that all naturopathic treatments are rooted in the principle of bodily cleansing, aligning with the yogic ideal that purity—of—body, mind, and spirit—is central to well-being.
The event concluded with an engaging interactive session, where participants posed questions related to naturopathy, expressing keen interest in its methods and global relevance. IIT Kanpur’s initiative serves as a timely reminder of how traditional Indian wellness practices like yoga and naturopathy can contribute not only to personal health but also to a more harmonious relationship with the environment.
