Thousands flocked to Mysore Palace grounds Sunday for 12th International Day of Yoga, focusing on ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’. People of all ages moved through yoga asanas together, turning the iconic site into a living mural of wellness and discipline.
Inaugurating the event,**Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar stressed Mysuru’s historical role in modern yoga's evolution. He noted many popular practices today trace back to Mysuru,a city pivotal in spreading India’s ancient yogic traditions worldwide .
Wadiyar spotlighted former Mysore ruler,Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, who brought esteemed yoga guru T. Krishnamacharya to city after meeting him at Banaras Hindu University . Krishnamacharya’s teachings at Jaganmohan Palace and local Sanskrit schools laid foundation for global yoga movement. “Yoga is one of six classical schools of Indian philosophy . It's more than exercise; it’s a way of life teaching balance and fulfillment,” Wadiyar stated.
He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for boosting yoga globally, proud that nations now mark International Day of Yoga.
T.S. Srivatsa, MLA for Krishnaraja, reported this year’s celebrations reached nearly 180 locations in Mysuru. Over 1,200 instructors led events,with participation topping 100,000 citywide . Children with special abilities took part too,showing the occasion’s inclusive spirit.
Dr. Renuka Devi, District AYUSH Officer,stressed yoga goes beyond physical exercise, harmonizing mind,body, spirit. She highlighted regular yoga's importance for health,especially in older age,echoing this year’s theme .
Event was collaborative effort involving many organizations: Government of India, Government of Karnataka, district administration, Zilla Panchayat, AYUSH Department,Mysore Palace Board,Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports,School Education Department,Yoga Federation of Mysuru,and various yoga groups.
As sun rose over historic palace,gathering celebrated yoga and reinforced Mysuru’s legacy as global yoga hub. A reminder of city’s deep yoga roots, promoting health and well-being across generations…
