Tag: International Yoga Day 2025

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Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd. (IPSCDL) Celebrates International Yoga Day with a Renewed Focus on Wellness and Mindfulness

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Senior Leadership, Staff, and Wellness Experts Come Together in a Unified Display of Holistic Well-being

Panaji, June 21, 2025 – On the occasion of the 11th International Day of Yoga, Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd. (IPSCDL) hosted a dedicated yoga session at its headquarters in Panaji, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to holistic health, mindfulness, and workplace wellness.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from across the organization, led by Managing Director & CEO Mr. Sandip Jacques, IAS, and Mr. Brijesh Manerkar, Director of Municipal Administration. Staff members from various departments came together in a serene and focused environment to collectively embrace the ancient Indian practice of yoga.

🌿 Guided by Expertise, Grounded in Tradition

The session was conducted by Ms. Sheela Kankonkar, the Principal Yoga Teacher from Patanjali Yoga Samiti, known for her deep understanding and decades of teaching experience in yogic practices.

The 60-minute session included:

  • Breathing Techniques (Pranayama) to promote respiratory health and mental clarity
  • Stretching and Foundational Asanas for posture and flexibility
  • Mindfulness Practices and Meditation to support emotional well-being and focus

The session focused on balance—both physical and mental—reaffirming the role of yoga in today’s fast-paced professional and urban lifestyle.

🗣️ Leadership Speaks on Wellness & Smart Cities

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sandip Jacques, IAS, emphasized the importance of integrating well-being into urban development and workplace culture:

“As an organization leading the transformation of Panaji into a Smart City, we must remember that smartness begins with our people. Yoga provides us with the tools to stay centered, healthy, and resilient as we shape the future of urban India.”

Mr. Brijesh Manerkar echoed these sentiments, highlighting that wellness is not an option, but a necessity for productivity and innovation, especially in roles focused on urban governance and planning.

🏙️ Smart City, Mindful Citizens

The event underlined IPSCDL’s broader commitment to not only build intelligent infrastructure but also promote human-centric urban design—where health, sustainability, and community are integral to the city’s DNA.

The Yoga Day celebration aligns with Panaji’s evolving identity as a city that balances heritage with forward-thinking development, and infrastructure with wellness.

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Goa Tourism Celebrates 11th International Yoga Day at Socorro with Resounding Participation

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Socorro, 21st June 2025 – The Department of Tourism and Goa Tourism Development Corporation organized the 11th International Yoga Day in a grand and spirited manner at the Socorro Panchayat Hall, where over 150 participants gathered in a collective embrace of wellness, mindfulness, and community harmony. The celebrations reflected the State’s growing emphasis on integrating yoga and holistic health into its tourism narrative.

The celebrations were graced by the presence of Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, who emphasized the importance of yoga in promoting holistic health and positioning Goa as a wellness destination. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, Managing Director of GTDC Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Socorro Sarpanch Smt. Soniya Pednekar, Penha de Franca Sarpanch Shri Swapnil Chodankar, and Zilla Panchayat Member Smt. Kavita Gupesh Naik was also in attendance, along with members of the Socorro Panchayat and officials from the Department of Tourism and GTDC. The inaugural function was compared by Mr. Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC.

Speaking at the occasion, Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “Yoga aligns with the core values of Goa’s Regenerative Tourism model—restoring balance, enhancing well-being, and empowering communities. Through initiatives like this, we’re not only celebrating India’s rich heritage but also encouraging both locals and visitors to embrace holistic living in Goa’s serene natural surroundings.”

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik added,“Yoga Day is a reminder that wellness and tourism can go hand in hand. Goa is uniquely positioned to offer mindful, rejuvenating experiences, and we are actively working to create avenues that support year-round wellness-based tourism rooted in local culture and sustainability.”

The event featured a guided yoga session conducted by Mr. Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a Yoga Instructor and Evaluator certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, and Mrs. Pooja Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a certified yoga teacher, drawing participation from diverse age groups and communities. As part of the program, attendees were encouraged to adopt yoga as a daily practice to enhance physical vitality, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

As part of its broader vision, Goa has been actively promoting wellness and spiritual tourism. The State is promoting a slower, more conscious form of travel that nurtures both people and the planet. Initiatives such as the celebration of Yoga Day are a reflection of Goa’s aspiration as India’s premier wellness destination.

The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with local panchayats and stakeholders, continues to promote wellness-based experiences across Goa, reflecting the State’s commitment to building a healthier society and fostering mindful, sustainable tourism practices.

Health

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona, Celebrates International Yoga Day 2025 with Energy and Enthusiasm

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Aldona, Goa | June 21, 2025 — In a vibrant celebration of health, mindfulness, and discipline, St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona observed International Yoga Day 2025 with a meaningful program that brought together over 350 students in a one-hour yoga session on the morning of June 21st, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., in the school hall.

Guided by the global theme of “Harmony Between Mind and Body,” the school embraced Yoga Day as an opportunity to instill values of wellness and inner balance in the young generation.

🧘 A Session Led with Purpose and Precision

The session was expertly conducted by the school’s Physical Education teacher, Sir R.J. Vijaykumar, supported by a dedicated team of student volunteers. Students followed the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH, performing foundational yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and stretches that promote both mental clarity and physical strength.

The hour-long session provided students not only with physical activity but also moments of reflection, calm, and self-awareness — aligning perfectly with Yoga Day’s core intention.

📚 Students Lead the Way with Interactive Program

Adding depth and context to the celebration, the students of Std. XII Science organized a brief assembly program that included:

  • An interactive PowerPoint presentation highlighting the origins, scientific benefits, and real-life applications of yoga.
  • A thought-provoking skit emphasizing the integration of yoga into daily routines for mental resilience and emotional well-being.

The student-led presentation resonated deeply with peers and teachers alike, driving home the message that yoga is more than exercise — it’s a way of life.

💬 Reflections and Impact

School Principal and staff commended the efforts of the students and the PE department for delivering a well-rounded, impactful event that stayed true to the spirit of International Yoga Day.

“Yoga brings about unity — of mind, body, and soul. Today’s celebration was a beautiful reminder of that, and we are proud of our students for embracing it so wholeheartedly,” said one faculty member.

The program inspired many students to view yoga as a sustainable, lifelong wellness habit, rather than just a one-day event.

🌿 Nurturing Future-Ready Students Through Ancient Wisdom

By weaving yoga into the school culture, St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona continues its commitment to nurturing holistically healthy, emotionally resilient, and physically active young individuals. Events like these ensure that the next generation carries forward the rich legacy of Indian traditions while building a strong foundation for future challenges.

Health

JCI Ponda Leads International Yoga Day Celebration at Dharbandora School, Promoting Wellness Among Youth

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Dharbandora, Goa | June 21, 2025 — In alignment with the global spirit of International Yoga Day, JCI Ponda organized a rejuvenating yoga session at Matoshri Anandibai Vaman Marathe Vidyamandir, Dharbandora. The initiative aimed to inspire young minds to embrace the timeless practice of yoga as a tool for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 100+ students from the school, who engaged in various yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques in a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere.

🌿 Building Healthy Habits Through Yoga

The session began with light warm-up exercises to prepare the body and mind, followed by a sequence of foundational yoga asanas such as:

  • 🪷 Padmasana – The Lotus Pose for meditation
  • 🌲 Tadasana – The Mountain Pose for posture and balance
  • 🪑 Vrikshasana – The Tree Pose for strength and concentration

These were complemented by a set of Pranayama techniques (breathing exercises) and a short guided meditation session to help students center themselves and experience inner calm.

The school premises were filled with the energy of focused students and committed mentors — reflecting the core message of Yoga Day: “Yoga for Harmony and Peace.”

👩‍🏫 A Community Effort Rooted in Support

The success of the program was made possible by the active support of school leadership and JCI Ponda members. Ms. Manjusha Ravindra Naik, Headmistress of the school, was specially thanked for her encouragement and vision in fostering a culture of health and mindfulness among students.

JCI Ponda was also honored by the presence of:

  • JFP Sneha Naik, Past President
  • JC HGF Janhavi Shet Tilve, Past President
  • JC HGF Amey Shet Tilve
  • JR JC Rushank Natekar

Their presence lent inspiration and gravitas to the session, reinforcing JCI Ponda’s commitment to youth development through impactful community initiatives.

🧘‍♀️ Reflections from the Organizers

JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President of JCI Ponda, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the school and the team, saying:

“Yoga is a lifestyle, not just a practice. It’s encouraging to see young students connect with something so deeply rooted in our culture yet so relevant in today’s fast-paced world.”

JFM Muskan Naik, Secretary, and JC Mahadev Shinde, Project Coordinator, were instrumental in organizing the event, ensuring smooth execution and meaningful engagement throughout the session.

🌞 A Step Towards a Healthier Tomorrow

The event closed with collective reflections, gratitude, and a renewed pledge to carry forward the practice of yoga beyond just one day — into the daily routines of these young learners.

By integrating yoga into school activities, JCI Ponda has once again demonstrated its dedication to holistic youth development and community wellness.

Health

Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza Leads International Yoga Day Celebration, Emphasizes Wellness and Unity

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Celebrating 11 Years of Good Governance with a Collective Commitment to a Healthier, Mindful, and United Viksit Bharat

MAPUSA, GOA — June 21, 2025
In a spirited observance of International Yoga Day, Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza led a vibrant and inclusive yoga session, organized by BJP Mapusa in collaboration with the Patanjali Yog Samiti, Bardez, to mark the 11 Years of Good Governance under visionary leadership.

Held in the heart of Mapusa, the event witnessed participation from local leaders, government employees, party karyakartas, and citizens, reinforcing the timeless Indian message of wellness, mindfulness, and unity through yoga.

🌿 A Morning of Asanas, Pranayama, and Meditation

The session included guided practices of yoga asanas, pranayama (breathwork), and meditation, promoting both physical vitality and inner calm. The collective effort reflected the shared values of discipline, health, and balance — qualities deeply rooted in India’s yogic heritage.

Chief yoga instructors Smt Rupali Yashwant Gaundalkar and Shri Virupaksh Betagiri from Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez led the participants through a rejuvenating routine, accessible to people of all age groups and fitness levels.

🗣️ Leadership Speaks: Vision for Viksit Bharat

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Joshua De Souza said:

“Yoga is not just a practice — it is a philosophy of life. As we celebrate 11 years of good governance, we must also nurture a culture of holistic wellness. A healthy body and a focused mind are the cornerstones of a strong and united Viksit Bharat.”

He thanked all participants and organizers, especially the Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez, for their contribution toward building a healthier community and strengthening the fabric of unity through shared practices like yoga.

🤝 Dignitaries and Organizers Present

Also present at the event were:

  • BJP Mapusa Mandal President: Shri Yogesh Khedekar
  • General Secretaries: Shri Hanumant Warang and Shri Yashwant Gaundalkar
  • Senior yoga instructors and wellness advocates
  • Local government employees and active BJP karyakartas

The event highlighted a strong sense of community and participation, embodying the spirit of “Yoga for All” and aligning with India’s broader mission of promoting well-being as a national priority.

🌍 A Vision Beyond Fitness

International Yoga Day 2025 in Mapusa wasn’t just about physical fitness — it was about inspiring a movement. The program encouraged citizens to incorporate yoga into their daily routines and emphasized how ancient Indian wisdom can address modern health challenges, both physically and mentally.