Bandra transformed into a vibrant hub of wellness and positive energy as the Indian Yoga Association (IYA), Maharashtra Chapter, hosted Yoga Setu on 21st February. The grand event witnessed an overwhelming response, drawing over 550 participants, including college students, yoga practitioners, academicians, and esteemed dignitaries.
The program commenced on an inspiring note with breathtaking demonstrations of advanced yogasanas by national-level yoga athletes under the expert guidance of Dr. Pallavi Kavhane. Their remarkable strength, balance, and flexibility left the audience spellbound, beautifully showcasing the depth and discipline of yogic practice.
The Chief Guest, Shri Suresh Prabhu, Chancellor of Rishihood University and Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture, applauded the vision of Yoga Setu, appreciating its mission of “bringing people together for a healthy and happy future.” Smt. Hansa Yogendra, Director of The Yoga Institute, Santacruz, shared her blessings through a video message, emphasizing the need to embrace “Yogamaya Jeevan” — a truly yogic lifestyle.
The gracious presence of Shri Subodh Tiwari ji, Secretary General of IYA, added immense dignity and inspiration to the occasion. In his address, he highlighted the collective responsibility of yoga institutions to uphold authenticity, unity, and quality in the propagation of yogic knowledge. He appreciated the Maharashtra Chapter for conceptualizing Yoga Setu as a platform that not only demonstrates yogic excellence but also connects communities, academia, and leadership under one common vision of holistic well-being. His words reinforced IYA’s commitment to making yoga a transformative force at the grassroots as well as at national and global levels.
Smt. Radhika Rastogi, IAS, Chief Secretary (Home Department), spoke candidly about her personal journey, sharing how practices such as Jal Neti and Pranayama helped her overcome anxiety and asthma. She highlighted that “having a purpose in life is the most important survival technique.”
Shri Kartik Vyas, motivational speaker and trainer, addressed the challenges of stress and anxiety in today’s rapidly evolving VUCA world. He guided the audience through a refreshing relaxation session, which was received with great enthusiasm.
In a special segment on “Yogic Management of Stress,” Yogacharya Shri Shabbir Shaikh elaborated on the transformative power of Shavasana, sound meditation, Yoga Nidra, and creative visualization with music as effective yogic tools for mental well-being.
A cultural highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing Samkhya Nritya Natika presented by members of the New Age Yoga Institute. Through graceful dance and evocative poetry, 28 performers illustrated the Samkhya philosophy of evolution propounded by Kapil Muni, explaining the profound dual principles of Purush and Prakriti. The audience watched in awe as philosophy came alive on stage.
The concluding highlight was an enlightening session on Ratricharya (sleep management) by Shri Nitin Patki, office bearer of IYA Maharashtra. In what proved to be a true eye-opener, he explained how five minutes of early morning sunlight, regular Surya Namaskar, an early dinner, and setting a sleep alarm can significantly enhance sleep quality. He further emphasized that sound sleep plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and balanced sugar levels.
Smt. Sandhya Patki, Founder of NAYI, led the gathering through Bhramari Pranayama and Antar Darshan (internal reflection), sharing that “10 minutes of daily Bhramari practice at bedtime is the secret formula for health and happiness.”
The event concluded on a soulful note with a melodious Marathi bhajan rendered by Shri Nitin Patki, with the entire audience joining in harmony. The atmosphere resonated with unity, joy, and collective well-being — truly reflecting the spirit of Yoga Setu as a bridge connecting people to health and happiness.
