THE International Yoga Day commenced with a resounding message of ‘Har Ghar Aangan Yoga’ and ‘One World, One Health’ as more than 21,000 enthusiasts, spanning across various age groups, gathered at Jora Maidan at the State Capital for the state-level Yoga programme. This grand event showcased the unity of mind, body, and nature through the practice of Yoga. The programme commenced with esteemed guests lighting the ceremonial lamp and inaugurating the event with the state song, fostering a sense of enthusiasm and unity among the participants. Gyanesh Sharma, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, emphasised the transformative power of yoga in promoting good health and alleviating diseases. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, the Yoga Commission has been actively working towards creating an atmosphere of yoga in Chhattisgarh.

 

Sharma expressed his delight in witnessing the increased awareness and participation in yoga, urging people from all walks of life to adopt yoga as a means of attaining a healthy lifestyle. He also emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about the significance of yoga among the masses. Vikas Upadhyay, Parliamentary Secretary, highlighted the necessity of regular yoga practice for maintaining overall well-being. He praised the efforts of the Yoga Commission in raising awareness about yoga, resulting in the establishment of over 40 yoga centers throughout State. Upadhyay acknowledged the pivotal role of yoga as a lifeline during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. MLA Satyanarayan Sharma reiterated the importance of daily yoga practice, emphasising its role in maintaining good health and preventing unnecessary expenses related to medical treatment. The concerted efforts of the Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, under the guidance of Chairman Gyanesh Sharma, have significantly contributed to the growing awareness and integration of yoga into people's lives. This transformation has led to a significant change in people's lifestyles. Mohan Markam, MLA and CPCC President, extended his congratulations on Yoga Day, encouraging everyone to embrace yoga as a means to stay fit, highlighting its ancient origins and scientific benefits.

 

During the state-level yoga programme, yoga instructor Chhabiram Sahu provided training in various yoga techniques, emphasising that yoga symbolises the harmony between the body, mind, and nature. Sahu explained that yoga encompasses the eight limbs known as Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. By practicing these components, one can achieve freedom from physical and mental ailments, attain mental tranquility, and increase physical energy levels. Sahu stressed the significance of meditation and wholehearted engagement in yoga, enabling individuals to tap into infinite inner energy. The participants at the state-level yoga programme enthusiastically practiced a range of yoga asanas, including Padmasan, Tadasan, Halasan, Ardhachakrasan, Vajrasan, Dhanurasan, Makarasan, Naukasan, Pawan Muktasan, Bhujangasan, Shavasan, Kapalbhati, Grivachalan, and Anulom-Vilom. Dharsinwa MLA Anita Yogendra Sharma, Raipur Municipal Corporation Mayor Ejaz Dhebar, Zila Panchayat President Domeshwari Verma, Raipur Divisional Commissioner Dr Sanjay Alang, Director of Social Welfare Ramesh Kumar Sharma, Collector Dr. Sarveshwar Bhure, and IG Ratanlal Dangi were among the esteemed guests, along with a large number of yoga enthusiasts, public representatives, and government officials who graced the event.