Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI) in Gangtok, Sikkim, under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, organized a vibrant program to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY). The event emphasized this year’s theme, “Yoga for Self & Society,” and took place at the Shri Rama Chandra Mission (SRCM) Heartfulness Meditation Centre in Tadong, Gangtok.
The program commenced with an inaugural session that included the lighting of the lamp and a welcome address. Dr. Achintya Mitra, the Assistant Director In-charge of RARI, Gangtok, delivered an enlightening presentation on the significance of Yoga Day. Following this, Mrs. Kavita Telang, Preceptor at the SRCM HeartfulnessMeditation Centre, gave an insightful lecture on the spiritual aspects of yoga.
A highlight of the event was a 45-minute Common Yoga Protocol session led by Dr. Sreelakshmi R.S, Research Officer (Ay.), RARI, Gangtok. This session was attended by the staff of RARI, the Heartfulness Meditation Centre, and members of the general public. Additionally, Mrs. Kavita Telang conducted a 20-minute meditation session. The event concluded with remarks from Dr. Lijima C, Research Officer (Ay.), RARI, Gangtok. The program saw active participation from 60 to 70 attendees, who were also provided with light refreshments.
Subsequently, an awareness lecture on the “Importance of Yoga in Daily Life” was delivered to the OPD patients at RARI, Gangtok, by Dr.Sreelakshmi R.S. Furthermore, a Common Yoga Protocol session was organized by the High Court of Sikkim, in which Mr. Pritam Karmakar, pharmacist from the SCSP Project, and Mrs. Dilbahadur Tamangparticipated. The participants at the High Court were also given immunity booster kits by the RARI team, and Mr. Pritam Karmakardelivered an awareness lecture on the Importance of yoga and Ayurveda.
The observance of IDY 2024 extended to the Ayurveda Health Centres at Geyzing and Jorethang, which are extension centers of RARI, Gangtok. These centers conducted Common Yoga Protocol sessions and awareness lectures for their patients and staff, guided by Dr. Priyanka Yadav and Dr. Devasish Poddar, Senior Research Fellows (Ayurveda).
Overall, the celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga by the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute in Gangtok was a resounding success, fostering a greater appreciation for yoga and its benefits for both individuals and society. The various activities and lectures provided valuable insights into the holistic practices of yoga and Ayurveda, reinforcing their significance in promoting health and well-being.