Mangaluru: The 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, on June 21. The programme was jointly organised by Yenepoya Naturopathy and Yogic Science College and Hospital (YNYSCH) in association with Yenepoya Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital (YAMCH), Yenepoya Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital (YHMCH), and National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit I.

Held at the Yendurance Zone, the event witnessed the active participation of more than 350 students, faculty members, healthcare professionals, and invited guests.

Common Yoga Protocol Session Marks the Celebration

The celebrations commenced at 8.45 am with the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) session led by Dr Vinaya Kumar T. Participants enthusiastically performed various yogic practices in accordance with the prescribed protocol.

The session highlighted the role of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, emotional balance, disease prevention, and healthy ageing. Following the mass yoga practice, students presented vibrant Yoga Nrityam performances, adding a cultural dimension to the celebrations.

Experts Highlight Importance of Holistic Health

The formal programme began with an invocation followed by a welcome address by Dr Sangeethalaxmi, Associate Professor.

The ceremonial lamp was lit by the dignitaries, symbolising the illumination of knowledge, wisdom, and well-being.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Dr Shyamarraj Nidugala, a renowned national and international wellness consultant, emphasised yoga’s significance as a holistic approach to health promotion and disease prevention.

He noted that regular yoga practice helps foster physical vitality, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall well-being while contributing significantly to healthy ageing.

Awareness Activities and Competitions Recognised

During the programme, Dr Soumya, Professor, presented a report on the various activities conducted as part of the International Day of Yoga celebrations. The report highlighted awareness programmes, competitions, and community outreach initiatives organised for students and the public.

A prize distribution ceremony was held to honour the winners of competitions conducted in connection with Yoga Day. The dignitaries congratulated the awardees and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of all contestants.

University Reaffirms Commitment to Wellness

Addressing the gathering, Dr Puneeth Raghavendra K. R., Principal, YNYSCH, and Dr Vijayendra V. Itagi, Principal, YHMCH, underscored the growing relevance of yoga in preventive, promotive, and integrative healthcare.

They encouraged students and healthcare professionals to embrace yoga as a lifelong practice for achieving holistic health and wellness.

The programme was also graced by Dr Ashwini Shetty, NSS Programme Coordinator, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), and Dr Veeraj Hegde, Head of the Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, Yenepoya Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital.

In his presidential address, Dr Aswini Dutt R., Registrar, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting holistic health, wellness, and traditional systems of medicine through education, research, and community outreach programmes.

Promoting Yoga for Healthy Ageing

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Arpith, Lecturer-cum-RMO, who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, organisers, faculty members, students, volunteers, and participants.

The event ended with the National Anthem.

The celebration served as a meaningful reminder of yoga’s transformative role in fostering a healthier, happier, and more harmonious society while reinforcing this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”