The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, celebrated the 10th International Yoga Day. The event was organised by the Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga & AIIA. Staff members, students, and the community at the Hospital Block of AIIA, Goa, took part. The celebration began with a warm welcome to all dignitaries, including Chief Guest Suneel Anchipaka, Guest of Honour Jyoti Sardesai, Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean, AIIA Goa and faculty members. Traditional rituals such as Deep Prajvalan, Dhanvantari Poojan, Sthavan, and Patanjali Sthavan marked the commencement of the event, followed by a “Green Welcome ” for the honoured guests.
Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director of GTDC stated: “Integrating Yoga and Ayurveda into our daily lives is essential for achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle. On this International Yoga Day, we celebrate the profound impact of Yoga and Ayurveda in enhancing our lives and well-being. Goa, with its serene landscapes, is the perfect destination to integrate wellness tourism, fostering a holistic approach to health and happiness. He assured that the Department of Tourism will promote ayurveda and wellness tourism across India and at the International level by involving AIIA, Goa.”
Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean, AIIA Goa emphasised the holistic progress and promotion of wellness tourism in Goa. “As we celebrate the 10th International Yoga Day, we recognise the transformative power of Yoga in achieving holistic health. As we advance the AIIA Goa Campus, our focus remains on promoting these ancient practices, which are essential for physical, mental, and spiritual harmony. Together with the Department of Tourism, we aim to make Goa a leading destination for wellness tourism, inspiring individuals to embrace a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.”
Participants engaged in invigorating Yoga sessions, beginning with a dynamic Yoga Fusion session that integrated various styles and techniques. This was followed by a structured Yoga Protocol, featuring a 5-minute positioning phase and a comprehensive 45-minute routine designed to enhance holistic health and well-being. Dr. Yogesh Shinde, the Organising Secretary, provided an overview of the seven activities conducted throughout the month, highlighting their role in promoting Yoga awareness and participation.
A notable highlight was the release of special commemorative Yoga stamps for OPD patients, symbolising the integration of Yoga into healthcare practices. The event also celebrated the creativity and talent of participants with awards for Rangoli, Yogasana, and E-Slogan competitions.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Sarita Kapgate, who expressed gratitude to all participants and organisers. The celebration not only honoured International Yoga Day but also reinforced the timeless values of harmony, health, and inner peace advocated by Yoga.
