Bareilly: The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) celebrated the International Day of Yoga 2026 with a grand yoga programme at its Izatnagar campus, bringing together scientists, officers, employees, students, research scholars, and members of the institute’s Women’s Club to promote health, wellness, and a balanced lifestyle.
Participants enthusiastically performed various yoga postures and breathing exercises while reaffirming their commitment to adopting healthy living practices. The programme highlighted the importance of yoga in enhancing physical fitness, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. S.K. Singh, Joint Director (Research), described yoga as one of India’s most valuable contributions to the world. He said that in an era marked by increasing stress, irregular lifestyles, and health challenges, yoga offers a natural and effective solution for maintaining physical health and mental peace. He emphasized that regular yoga practice fosters self-discipline, emotional balance, and positive thinking, and encouraged scientists, students, and staff members to make yoga an integral part of their daily routine.
Dr. S.K. Mehendiratta, Joint Director (Academic), highlighted the role of yoga in strengthening not only physical health but also mental concentration, self-confidence, and work efficiency. He noted that yoga is particularly beneficial for students and young researchers, helping them improve focus and manage academic and professional pressures more effectively.
The practical yoga session was led by Yogacharya Brihmanand Bharti of Bharati Yoga Sansthan. Participants practiced a range of yoga postures, including Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Ardha Chakrasana, Vajrasana, Shashankasana, Parvatasana, Bhadrasana, Makarasana, Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana, Pawanmuktasana, Setubandhasana, Markatasana, and Shavasana. The session also included pranayama exercises aimed at improving respiratory health and mental relaxation.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the programme, Prabha Ji from Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya delivered an inspirational address on self-awareness and meditation. She explained that human beings are not merely physical bodies but conscious souls connected to the Supreme Being. She spoke about the significance of Rajyoga meditation in cultivating inner peace, happiness, and positive values, encouraging participants to embrace spiritual awareness as a means of personal growth and transformation.
Other speakers, including Sharad Ji and Shalini Ji, also shared their thoughts on the importance of yoga and spiritual well-being in everyday life.
The programme was coordinated by Principal Scientist Dr. J.K. Prasad, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Ayon Tarafdar. Among those present were Dr. Praveen Kumar, Dr. Heera Ram, Dr. Abhijeet Pawde, Dr. S.K. Saha, Ravi Agrawal from the Bareilly Meteorological Department, and a large number of scientists, officers, employees, and students of the institute.
The celebration reflected IVRI’s commitment to promoting holistic wellness and encouraging the adoption of yoga as a lifelong practice for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
