This year’s International Yoga Day witnessed vibrant participation across neighbourhood institutions in and around Adyar. From schools and colleges to cultural centres and yoga ashrams, the message of ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ resonated widely.
Thiruvanmiyur Beach marks International Yoga Day with wellness and community spirit
On June 21, 2025, the Thiruvanmiyur Beach came alive with the energy and harmony of International Yoga Day celebrations. Over 100 enthusiastic participants gathered on the sands to engage in a rejuvenating yoga session that included SKY Yoga practices, asanas, meditation, and a variety of physical exercises like leg, hand, eye, acupuncture, massage, and maharasana techniques.
The programme commenced with a prayer and was guided by trained instructors who ensured participants of all ages could follow and benefit from the session. The serene coastal backdrop added to the spiritual and physical benefits of the morning.
In addition to the yoga session, a free medical camp was conducted by Iswarya Hospital. An ambulance was stationed on-site, and more than 75 individuals—walkers, elderly residents, women, and children—were screened for sugar levels, hypertension, dietary needs, and general health. On-the-spot consultations with doctors were also provided, making it a truly holistic wellness initiative.
The event showcased the growing emphasis on community health, preventive care, and the power of yoga in everyday life.
Enthusiastic Yoga Day celebrations at Sai Siddha Samathi Yogashram
Sai Siddha Samathi Yogashram marked its 12th International Yoga Day celebration at Chettinad Vidyashram, Raja Annamalaipuram, anticipating the government’s 11th year of celebration by a full year.
Known for its dynamic approach, the Yogashram has consistently pushed the boundaries of its Yoga Day observances. This year, the celebration featured an energetic session comprising 108 Surya Namaskarams, 108 Chandra Namaskarams, and 108 Asanas with flowing movements. Last year’s highlight included 108 Surya Namaskaram and 108 Asanas for Seven Chakra activation.
The event began with a traditional prayer and saw the enthusiastic participation of nearly 300 students, ranging from 7 to 75 years of age. All participants reported feeling energised and relaxed. Medals and certificates were presented to every participant.
Beyond the physical event, Sai Siddha Samathi Yogashram also provided a free online Mudra class for the public via their YouTube channel, catering to diverse needs.
Sai Siddha Samathi Yogashram operates from Gandhi Nagar and Kamaraj Avenue, Adyar. For more information, contact: 94990 10610.
Yoga Day celebrations at Patrician College
Patrician College of Arts and Science, Gandhi Nagar, marked the International Yoga Day on June 21, with a vibrant event organised by the NSS, NCC, and Sports Committee.
The event began with a welcome address by Dr. B. Meena (Vice Principal -Shift II), followed by the chief guest’s address by Dr. N. Parasuraman (Principal Scientist at M.S.Swaminathan Research Foundation). Other guests of honour included M.S.Siva (District Youth Officer, MY Bharat), Alazagasan (Havildar, Indian Army), and K.Bhavani (Yoga Teacher, Maha Vimochana Trust).
Dr. Arokiamary Geetha Rufus, Principal, delivered a special address, followed by the release of a special edition brochure titled ‘Wellness Through the Years at PCAS’ by Academic Director Dr. Fatima Vasanth. Prizes were distributed to winners, and felicitation was offered by Dr. B. Anandapriya (Vice Principal -Shift I). Martin Baskar, NSS Programme Officer, proposed the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a mass yoga demonstration led by instructor K.Bhavani, reinforcing the importance of physical and mental well-being.
Samskrita Bharati hosts week-long yoga event at Kalakshetra
Samskrita Bharati, in collaboration with Vivekananda Kendra, Indian Yoga Association (TNSCC), and Kalakshetra Foundation, conducted a week-long Yoga programme titled ‘Samyogo Yogah’ at Kalakshetra campus, Thiruvanmiyur, under the guidance of the AYUSH Ministry.
From June 16–19, over 400 students from 10 schools in the Adyar zone attended the Yoga Chikitsa Shibiram, featuring expert-led lectures and live yoga demonstrations. Sessions explored mind management, respiratory wellness, Karma Yoga, and Pranayama. On June 19, stalwarts like Balaji Gorandla (Personal Coach and Counsellor), Nrithya Jagannathan (Director, KYM Institute of Yoga) and Dr. R. Elangovan (Executive Committee Member, Indian Yoga Association) discussed about Yoga.
The International Yoga Conference on June 20–21 brought together scholars and practitioners to present research and discuss global trends in Yoga. Dr. N. Gopalaswami inaugurated the conference, with S.K. Dogra presiding over the valedictory session. Speakers like Dr. Anuradha Choudhry (IIT-KGP) and Dr. Padmakumar Korattiyadath (Samskrita Bharati) emphasised the need for authenticity in global yoga education.
The event concluded with the release of a ‘Book of Abstracts’, daily performances of Yoga Gītam, and a renewed commitment to Yoga as a holistic path. The programme echoed this year’s International Yoga Day theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health.
Yoga day at Sri Sankara School with ‘Dawn to Dusk’ relay yoga
Sri Sankara Vidyashramam Mat. Hr. Sec. School, Thiruvanmiyur, marked International Yoga Day with a unique, full-day event titled ‘From Dawn to Dusk – A Yoga Relay’, emphasising inner peace and mindfulness.
The relay commenced with primary students presenting ‘Yoga on the Five Elements’ through graceful asanas. Middle schoolers showcased coordination with group and partner yoga, followed by high school students demonstrating ‘Yoga with Stick’ and dynamic sequences highlighting strength and focus. Classes XI and XII concluded the relay with Naadi Sudhi Pranayama for calmness and clarity. The event successfully highlighted yoga’s essence as a tool for holistic well-being across all age groups.
Sivananda Yoga’s Director honoured with Best Yoga Teacher award
On the occasion of International Day of Yoga, K.Gopakumar, Director of Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Kottivakkam, has been awarded the ‘Best Yoga Teacher’ award by the Tamil Nadu Sports Yogasana Association.
With a remarkable journey that began at the young age of 15 at the Sivananda Ashram in Kerala, Gopakumar has dedicated over 39 years to the practice and teaching of traditional Yoga, Ayurveda, and holistic wellness. His deep knowledge, compassionate instruction, and lifelong service have transformed countless lives across India and beyond.
Since 2012, he has served as the Director of the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in Kottivakkam, overseeing a wide range of beginner to advanced yoga programs, special workshops, and wellness initiatives. Under his leadership, the centre has become a beacon of classical yoga education in the city, staying rooted in the teachings of Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnudevananda.
Gopakumar also has extensive experience in Ayurveda and Thai massage, having worked closely with Swami Vishnudevananda himself, including accompanying him on his All-India Tour in 1987 and assisting him personally for several years. To join upcoming programs, call 91761 06790 or email: [email protected].
