The inaugural Mahakumbh of Yoga and Aarogya, The International Yoga Festival 2023, has left an enduring mark on attendees from across India and beyond.

Yogic Immersion

Held from March 1 to 7 in the serene environs of Rishikesh, the festival drew yoga enthusiasts, instructors, and students from leading yoga schools worldwide. Under the guidance of eminent Yogacharyas from the likes of Isha Foundation, Art of Living, and Sivananda Ashram, participants delved into a comprehensive range of yoga asanas.

Healing through Asanas

Beyond physical practice, the festival emphasized the transformative power of yoga for well-being. Yogacharyas imparted valuable knowledge on specific asanas to mitigate ailments such as diabetes, joint pain, digestive disorders, stress, and high blood pressure.

Expanding Accessibility

To ensure widespread participation, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board provided free arrangements for the Yoga Mahotsav. Attendees could choose from six participating schools, each offering designated yoga sessions along the picturesque Ganges banks. The maximum capacity per school was capped at 50, facilitating personalized attention.

Initially, over 200 participants graced the mats, with the number soaring to 296 by the third day. The festival brought together yogis from 18 Indian states and 21 countries, fostering a vibrant cross-cultural exchange.

Testimonials of Gratitude

Attendees lauded the Tourism Board’s exceptional efforts. Yoga brand ambassador for Uttarakhand, Dilraj Preet Kaur, remarked on the transformative energy emanating from yoga alongside the Ganges. Angelo, a Colombian instructor from Ramamani Iyengar Smriti Yoga School, marveled at the festival’s scenic beauty, describing it as a “blessing for yoga practitioners.” Priyanka from Art of Living expressed gratitude for the opportunity to practice yoga in such a serene environment.

Additional Offerings

The festival enriched participants with a diverse array of practices beyond asanas. Laughter yoga and meditation sessions were facilitated, the latter including an inaugural session by Heartfulness for inner peace. Guided meditations were also offered by the Art of Living and Brahmakumaris Institutes. Dedicated camps were established for laughter therapy, fostering a joyful and stress-relieving atmosphere. The festival culminated in a grand Surya Namaskar, where countless yogis united in a synchronized flow of sun salutations.