Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh hosts the annual International Yoga Festival keeping the foundation of authentic origin of Yoga intact. The festival began more than a decade back at Hotel Ganga Kinare with a handful of people under the banner of Uttar Pradesh Tourism, when Rishikesh was a part of the state. In 1999 the Parmarth Niketan Ashram was approached to host the festival. Today, the festival attracts hundreds of people from around 30 countries spread across the globe. Various forms of yoga are taught during the one week course. The best part is that this event falls at a time when the weather in India is Perfect. Winter in India is on the verge of bidding us good bye and the colourful season of spring is in the air. According to the latest weather update by Skymet Meteorology Division in India, the day temperatures have been hovering around 20°C to 22°C. This year, the minimums are also at a comfortable range of 10°C to 12°C.
This year’s focus- Back to tradition
This year, the festival which began on the 1st of March, went back to ancient India. The focus is on traditional yoga lineages from India along with International forms and styles taught by masters from well-known yoga schools. Here one has the opportunity to learn various styles including Power Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Kriya Yoga and Iyengar Yoga, from top-notch Yoga teachers.
Spiritual leaders like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Shankaracharya Swami Divyanand Teerth, Swami Chidanand Saraswat, Radhanath Swami are honouring the event with their presence and divine words.
Importance of Yoga
Yoga denotes discipline and tranquility that brings all round wellness of body and mind. It’s merely not about body but also about our heart and soul. Literally yoga means ‘Union’ of mind, body and soul. It is an ancient science which refers to holistic well-being with peace of mind and joy in heart.
If you missed it this year, do not forget to take up a package next year. The deal comprises of registration, accommodation and meals for a week. The standard International Yoga Festival package is definitely a better option to avail.
picture courtesy- theotherhome.com
