IGNCA Observes International Yoga Day with Collective Yoga Session and Special Lecture

NEW DELHI (INDIA): The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) marked International Yoga Day 2025 with a collective yoga session followed by a distinguished lecture, reinforcing the enduring relevance of yoga in contemporary life. International Yoga Day, a historic initiative by India proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, is observed annually on June 21. Backed by the support of 177 countries, the date was chosen for being the longest day of the year, symbolising the enduring message of yoga. The occasion seeks to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, encourage global peace and harmony, and bring worldwide recognition to India’s rich cultural heritage.

The event was attended by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA, Dr. Priyanka Mishra, Director (Administration), Prof. Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean (Administration), Prof. PratapanandJha, Dean (Academics), Prof. K. Anil Kumar, Head of the JanapadaSampada Division, and Shri Anurag Punetha, Controller, Media Centre, along with the full staff of IGNCA. The observance reiterated IGNCA’s commitment to integrating traditional knowledge systems into institutional life and fostering a holistic approach to health and culture.

Following the yoga session, a special lecture was delivered by renowned Odissi danseuse Dr. LeelaHota on the topic ‘Yoga and Art: The Path to Health and Harmony’. Dr. Hota offered compelling insights into the interconnectedness of yoga and Indian classical dance, highlighting how both disciplines contribute to inner balance and holistic health.

As part of the celebration, IGNCA officials and employees participated in a collective yoga practice at the Sanskriti Kendra, Aya Nagar, Anandgram, New Delhi. The event was a culmination of a month-long yoga engagement initiative held from May 21 to June 20, designed to deepen community participation and awareness. The yoga session was conducted by Dr. Satyendra Singh, a certified yoga trainer recognised by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. The session concluded with a peace prayer, with enthusiastic participation from the IGNCA staff.

Source: PIB