Lucknow: On the occasion of the 12th International Yoga Day, a grand mass yoga programme was organized at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Stadium in Mau district headquarters, Uttar Pradesh. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials, public representatives, students, and citizens.
Uttar Pradesh Energy and Urban Development Minister A.K. Sharma attended as the chief guest. He inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp and offering floral tributes to the statue of Goddess Saraswati. Participants also listened to the live address of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion and later took part in the group yoga session with great enthusiasm.
Yoga as India’s Global Contribution
Addressing the gathering, A.K. Sharma described yoga as an invaluable heritage of India’s ancient culture and the rishi tradition, which has provided the world with a path toward a healthy and balanced life. He said that due to the consistent efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the United Nations recognized International Yoga Day, and today millions across the globe have embraced yoga as part of their daily routine.
He emphasized that yoga is not merely physical exercise but a holistic system that integrates body, mind, and intellect. It promotes discipline, mental peace, positive energy, and better health. Referring to Maharishi Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga and the Bhagavad Gita’s principle “Yoga is skill in action,” he said yoga essentially means performing one’s duties with dedication, efficiency, and sincerity.
Yoga for a Healthier Society
The Minister noted that in today’s stressful and fast-paced lifestyle, yoga has become increasingly relevant. It not only helps prevent diseases but also strengthens individuals physically, mentally, and spiritually, contributing significantly to nation-building.
He urged all officials, employees, public representatives, students, and citizens to adopt yoga as a regular part of their daily life rather than limiting it to a single-day observance. He said that regular yoga practice leads to a healthy individual, healthy families, and ultimately a healthy society.
The event was attended by District Magistrate Anand Vardhan, Chief Development Officer Vivek Kumar Srivastava, public representatives, district-level officers, students, and a large number of citizens, making it a successful celebration of wellness, unity, and collective participation.
