The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, in association with the District AYUSH Department of Himachal Pradesh and the National Cadet Corps (NCC), hosted a grand celebration of the International Day of Yoga 2025 on the historic lawns of its Main Building. The event, which began at 6:30 AM, reflected a deep commitment to India’s ancient wellness traditions and this year’s global theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
The programme opened with a welcome address by Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary of IIAS, who greeted the attendees and underscored yoga’s universal relevance and transformative power. Dr. Ashwin Sharma, District AYUSH Officer, delivered the keynote address, calling yoga a timeless treasure of Indian knowledge and a vital path to holistic health.
From 7:00 AM, a mass yoga session based on the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) was conducted. Led by Dr. Nisha Sharma and Dr. Swati Sharma, and supported by Dr. Parul Sharma and Ritu Rawat as co-instructors, the session guided participants through asanas, pranayama, and meditation practices. A diverse gathering of scholars, staff, NCC cadets, and yoga practitioners took part with enthusiasm and discipline.
Lieutenant Colonel Praveen Thakur, Officer Commanding, NCC Shimla, concluded the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of all involved. Akhilesh Pathak, Public Relations Officer, IIAS, compered the event, lending it a seamless and vibrant flow.
The celebration stood out not only as a tribute to physical and mental well-being but also as a resonant message about the interconnectedness of personal health and planetary harmony.
