Lucknow: Lucknow University’s Faculty of Yoga and Alternative Medicine inaugurated a three-day workshop on the ‘Philosophy and Science of Pranayama’ at the Faculty’s Yoga Auditorium. The event was inaugurated by Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Manuka Khanna, who lit the ceremonial lamp. The distinguished guest for the occasion was R.K. Singh, Director of the Second Campus, while the event was presided over by Professor Ashok Kumar Sonkar.
The program commenced with a Shiv Stuti recital. Addressing the gathering, Professor Manuka Khanna emphasized the significance of yoga as an invaluable aspect of life, particularly in preventing lifestyle-related diseases. She stated that the practice of yoga and pranayama enhances bodily purification and strengthens immunity. She also underscored the necessity of organizing such workshops regularly for the well-being of university faculty, staff, and students.
Guest of honor Professor R.K. Singh elaborated on the health benefits of pranayama, noting that it enhances lung capacity and contributes to a long and healthy life. He encouraged everyone to incorporate yoga and pranayama into their daily routine. Presiding over the session, Professor Ashok Kumar Sonkar highlighted the importance of safeguarding one’s life and advocated for the widespread practice of pranayama among the general public.
Coordinator of the Faculty, Dr. Amarjeet Yadav, stressed that life is intrinsically linked to breath, making pranayama an essential daily practice for a quality life. He elaborated on its benefits, stating that regular practice improves blood circulation and heart function while preventing ailments such as asthma and other respiratory disorders. The workshop is set to continue for three days, with various yoga experts conducting sessions on different pranayama techniques.
On February 27, 2025, yoga expert Shri Krishna Kumar Shukla will conduct the first session from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, focusing on Surya Bhedi and Chandra Bhedi Pranayama. The second session, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, will be led by Shri Kishore Kumar Shukla, who will guide participants through Ujjayi Pranayama. The third session, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, will be conducted by Dr. Ramnaresh, who will teach Bhastrika Pranayama.
On February 28, 2025, Dr. Ramkishore will lead the first session from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, focusing on Udgitha Pranayama. This will be followed by Dr. Kailash Kumar’s session from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, where participants will practice Sheetali Pranayama.
Following the inauguration ceremony, the first session, held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, was conducted by yoga expert Archana Verma, who demonstrated Bhramari Pranayama. She explained how this pranayama induces a calming vibration in the mind and body. The second session, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, was led by Dr. Brijendra Pratap Singh, who guided participants through Anulom Vilom and Kapalbhati Pranayama. Dr. Brijendra highlighted the role of Anulom Vilom in purifying the nerves and explained how Kapalbhati helps cleanse the blood and balance the body’s energy flow.
The event also featured cultural presentations, with students Namrata Mishra, Ayushi Singh, Shaurya Singh, Vyakhya Singh, and Priyanshi Yadav performing a Shiv Stuti. Additionally, student Nikita captivated the audience with a powerful rendition of the Shiv Tandav, infusing the gathering with energy.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, including Dr. Sudhir Mishra, Dr. Ramkishore, Dr. Ramnaresh, and Shobhit Singh, along with numerous students from the Yoga Department.
