Lucknow : In a remarkable celebration of the 11th International Yoga Day, the International Buddhist Research Institute, Lucknow, under the Department of Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, organized a “Yoga and Meditation Camp for One Earth, One Health” at Manyawar Shri Kanshiram Ji Green (Eco) Garden, Alambagh, Lucknow.
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of nearly 350 individuals, including revered Buddhist monks such as Bhikkhu Sheel Ratan, Bhikkhu Dev Anand Vardhan, Tarunesh Bauddh, and Venerable Dr. Julampitiye Punyasara Mahasthavir from Sri Lanka. Other attendees included Dr. Rakesh Singh, Director of the Institute, Shri Arunesh Mishra, Dr. Dhirendra Singh, members of the Mahila Yog Shakti Sanstha, staff and students of Buddhist and Jain institutions, distinguished citizens, scholars, and media personnel.
The program began with a live broadcast of the Prime Minister’s address, streamed via LED screen as per the Standard Yoga Protocol. In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized that “Yoga means to unite” and expressed joy over how yoga has become a part of the daily routine of millions across the globe. An audio/video message from the Governor and Chancellor of Uttar Pradesh was also broadcast during the event.
Under the AYUSH Ministry’s Standard Yoga Protocol, Acharya Prashant Ji’s disciples — Kalindi Pal and Kusum Pathak — guided the large gathering through structured yoga exercises. The session included a synchronized 10-minute practice of the “Surya Namaskar Yoga Mudra”, enhanced with chanting of sacred mantras. Participants were informed about the immense benefits of this practice for holistic well-being.
Bhikkhu Sheel Ratan, a member of the institute, highlighted the importance of Vipassana meditation in achieving mental peace alongside physical health. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rakesh Singh, Director of the Institute, elaborated on yoga’s pivotal role in enhancing one’s mental, physical, spiritual, and cultural development. He emphasized that yoga helps eliminate jealousy, attachment, and hatred, and should be adopted by everyone for a more balanced and harmonious life.
Dr. Singh concluded the program by thanking the distinguished guests, monks, scholars, yoga trainers, students, and media representatives for their presence and contribution to the success of the event. The celebration served as a powerful reminder of yoga’s role in achieving inner peace, communal harmony, and global well-being.
