Shillong, June 21: The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, in collaboration with the Ramakrishna Mission, Shillong, marked the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 with a special yoga session, as a part of Yoga Sangam, held at the Mission’s premises in Laitumkhrah.
The event was graced by the presence of Swami Hitakamananda ji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Shillong, Swami Divyaswarupananda ji Maharaj, Swami Vedeshananda ji Maharaj, and other revered monks of the Mission.
The inaugural session was enriched by an insightful talk by Swami Vedeshananda ji Maharaj, who reflected on the ancient origins and universal significance of yoga. He emphasized that yoga is a science that harmonizes the body, mind, and breath, ultimately guiding the practitioner toward uniting the individual self with the universal self.
Swami Vedeshananda also highlighted the vision behind International Yoga Day, proposed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2014 and endorsed by 175 countries. He reiterated that yoga transcends religious or cultural identities, serving as a path to universal well-being, inner peace, and physical health.
He urged everyone to embrace yoga regardless of age or background, stressing the importance of proper breathing techniques and posture in achieving the full benefits of the practice.
Swami Vedeshananda ji Maharaj also reflected on the theme of the 11th International Day of Yoga – “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” He explained that this theme highlights yoga’s vital role in nurturing harmony not just within individuals, but also with the environment and society at large. Rooted in ancient wisdom, yoga promotes sustainable living by encouraging balance, mindfulness, and holistic well-being.
Yoga instructors from Meghalaya Yog Samiti led the participants through the Common Yoga Protocol, as prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH. The session included loosening exercises, fundamental asanas, pranayama techniques, and guided meditation.
The celebration saw enthusiastic participation from students of the Mission, students of Integrated Child Development Programme of the Mission, teachers, parents, NCC cadets, officials and staff of CBC Shillong, and members and volunteers of the Ramakrishna Mission Shillong. The NCC Cadets were led by Third officer Smt Sangeeta Chakraborty, ANO Laitumkrah Assamese Secondary School.
Swami Hitakamananda ji Maharaj remarked that yoga is India’s timeless gift to humanity—offering a means to physical vitality, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. He also encouraged regular practice to maintain harmony amidst the stresses of modern life.
A short and lively quiz on the International Day of Yoga (IDY) was held to test participants’ awareness of its history, global impact, and annual themes. The quiz drew enthusiastic responses, and winners were felicitated with prizes and certificates, providing a spirited and memorable conclusion to the event.
This celebration is part of the nationwide ‘Yoga Sangam’ initiative, which promotes synchronized yoga demonstrations across the country. The overwhelming public participation underscores a growing awareness and commitment to health and mindfulness through yoga.
Continuing the momentum of International Day of Yoga, a three-day Yoga Camp will be conducted at the Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Quinton Road, Police Bazar, Shillong, from 22nd to 24th June 2025, daily from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. The camp is free of charge and open to all. The Mission has cordially invited everyone to participate and experience the transformative power of yoga.
