On the serene banks of the Ganga, embraced by the divine energy of Rishikesh, Yoga Setu – The Collective Sankalp with IYA unfolded as a beautiful offering to the timeless spirit of Yoga. Held on May 25, 2025, at Parmarth Niketan, this special half-day seminar was organized by the Indian Yoga Association (IYA) in collaboration with Parmarth Niketan (a proud Member Institution of IYA), to celebrate the upcoming International Day of Yoga 2025 under the global theme “One Earth, One Health – Yoga Unplugged.”
The event brought together over 10 leading yoga institutions from Rishikesh and its surrounding regions, along with students and young seekers eager to embrace yoga as a lifestyle. With hearts aligned in shared purpose, the gathering served as a spiritual bridge—a Setu—uniting institutions, traditions, and visions in the collective service of Yoga and humanity.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp in the presence of Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, President of Parmarth Niketan and Governing Council Member of IYA, in the presence of Dr. S.P. Mishra ji, CEO, IYA PrCB, and Ms. Nandini Tripathi of Parmarth Niketan. A soulful prayer by Ganga Nandini ji set a sacred tone for the afternoon, followed by a presentation on the vision, growth, and digital initiatives of the Indian Yoga Association—including the launch of the IYA Mobile Application, designed to connect yoga practitioners and institutions across the globe.
In his keynote address, Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji beautifully captured the essence of the event:
“Yoga Setu is not just a gathering—it is a divine bridge that connects us to our higher selves, to one another, and to the universal spirit. Yoga is not about perfection in postures but about connection, compassion, and conscious living.”
He urged everyone to become “living Setus,” radiating the values of yoga—peace, service, and inner harmony—in daily life.
Dr. S.P. Mishra ji, in his address,
highlighted the inclusive vision of IYA as a national platform where yoga schools and institutions—rooted in India’s ancient wisdom—can collectively work to preserve and propagate authentic yogic traditions worldwide. He emphasized the Association’s role as a custodian of India’s yogic heritage and a beacon for future generations.
The seminar also provided an open forum for institutions to share insights, ask questions, and explore avenues for collaboration, growth, and integration with IYA. Participants actively engaged in the dialogue, forging new connections in the sacred spirit of unity.
As the sun dipped behind the Himalayan foothills, the gathering moved to the divine Ganga Aarti at Parmarth’s ghat—a moment of surrender, gratitude, and collective prayer. The evening concluded with a warm dinner, where conversations continued, and bonds deepened over shared visions and values.
Yoga Setu 2025 was not merely an event—it was a living testimony to the power of collective Sankalp. It rekindled the flame of oneness, reminding everyone that when institutions, individuals, and intentions align, a greater flow of transformation begins.
One Earth. One Health. One Sankalp.
From the banks of the Ganga to the hearts of all who gathered—this message echoed far and wide.
