By Sunil Goyal
International Yoga Day- 2025: Amity Institute of Behavioural and Allied Sciences, Amity University Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior, successfully organized a two-day National Symposium on the theme “Yoga for Health, Happiness and Harmony” on 20th June 2025 to celebrate the International Day of Yoga. The symposium was held with the gracious support of the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR), focusing on re-establishing the physical, mental, and social benefits of yoga in modern-day living, while drawing from the vast Indian philosophical heritage.
The event commenced with the traditional Saraswati Vandana and Vedic chants, setting a serene and spiritual tone. Scholars and senior university administrators from across the country actively participated in the symposium. The introductory note was delivered by Dr. Uday Prakash Verma, the Symposium Coordinator, who highlighted the importance of yoga as described in the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads.
Prof. (Dr.) Navratan Sharma, Director of the Institute, welcomed all the dignitaries and emphasized that yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a holistic way of living that integrates the body, mind, and soul. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Pro-Chancellor of Amity University, Lt. Gen. V.K. Sharma, AVSM (Retd.), for his efforts in introducing yoga as a part of academic discourse in line with Indian knowledge traditions.
Renowned yoga scholar Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Kumar, former Head and Dean, Faculty of Yoga and Physical Education, Haridwar, set the context of the symposium by elaborating on the relevance of yoga from an Indian perspective and its global implications in the present era.
Pro Vice Chancellor (Research), Prof. (Dr.) M.P. Kaushik, addressed the gathering, underscoring yoga as an essential part of academic and personal life. He urged students to incorporate yoga into their daily routine, stating that “Health is wealth, and where there is life, there is the world.”
Delivering his keynote address, Hon’ble Pro-Chancellor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) V.K. Sharma, AVSM, described yoga as a spiritual bridge that connects humanity with peace, happiness, and inner discipline. He elaborated on the difference between physical training and yoga, stating that yoga is not only a health practice but a powerful tool for building harmony and inner calm in today’s fast-paced world.
In the concluding session, Prof. Rajendra Kumar Sharma expressed heartfelt thanks to the distinguished guests, including Lt. Gen. V.K. Sharma, AVSM, Pro Vice Chancellor (Research) Prof. (Dr.) M.P. Kaushik, keynote speaker Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Kumar, as well as Coordinators Dr. Uday Prakash Verma and Dr. Rituraj. He also extended appreciation to all the faculty members, participants, and organizers who contributed to the success of the symposium.
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of a large number of faculty members and students, making it a meaningful and insightful celebration of the International Day of Yoga.
