Mangaluru Makes Waves with Jalayoga on Yoga Day

Mangaluru: Marking the 11th International Day of Yoga, Mangaluru hosted a distinctive celebration with a unique session of Jalayoga—a form of yoga performed in water—at the city’s central public swimming pool.

Roughly 40 members of a local swimming enthusiasts’ group participated in the event, effortlessly performing classic yoga poses such as Padmasana and Shavasana while floating in 16-foot-deep water. According to organisers, the buoyant support provided by water helped reduce muscle strain, allowing practitioners to maintain postures more comfortably.

“Jalayoga is a harmonious blend of yoga postures, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques—all carried out in water,” explained an organiser. “It enhances flexibility, tones muscles, and promotes a profound sense of relaxation.”

A standout moment was when S.M. Shivaprakash, a retired Dean from Mangalore University of Fisheries, wrote a postcard to Prime Minister Narendra Modi—while swimming. His message read: “Dear Modiji, Happy International Yoga Day. I am writing this postcard while swimming in the pool. Fit India – Shivaprakash, Mangaluru.” The act captured the attention of many for its creative spirit.

Speaking to the media, Shivaprakash credited the Prime Minister for elevating yoga globally. “Yoga unites the mind, body, and spirit. Practising it in water offers a fresh dimension to its ancient wisdom,” he remarked.

Organised under the “One Earth, One Health” theme, the event received full support from the Mangaluru City Corporation Swimming Pool. Participants described the session as invigorating and mentally soothing, promising to return for more.