AURAK hosts International Yoga Day celebrations to support holistic approach to life and learning

Demonstrations by young yoga practitioners captivate the audience at the show supported by the Indian Consulate and Indian People’s Forum

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: The growing popularity of yoga globally was celebrated at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) with a colourful event to mark the 9th International Yoga Day, supported by the Consulate General of India and the Indian People’s Forum (IPF).

As part of the university’s holistic approach to education, AURAK hosted the celebrations at the university’s Sports complex, which featured captivating yoga performances by children from schools and yoga institutes, watched by a large crowd of Indian yoga enthusiasts and students from the university.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Bijender Singh, Consul (Consular and Labour), Consulate General of India, hailed the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of yoga, that originated in India, and was described as an invaluable gift from India to the world. He spoke of how yoga has grown into a global phenomenon since the International Yoga Day was first proposed on 11 December 2014 at the United Nations by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prof. Stephen C. Wilhite, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs & Student Success/Provost, AURAK, said: “We are pleased to be hosting this event in partnership with the IPF. The Prime Minister of India, Mr. Modi, speaking at the International Yoga Day celebration on the lawns of the United Nations in New York this week, reminded us that yoga unites mind and body as well as peoples of the world. AURAK is committed to promoting holistic health and supports yoga as a powerful tool for advancing wellness.”

Mr. Rajiv Rajput, National Secretary of IPF said: “These celebrations at AURAK are a confirmation of the fact that yoga is India’s gift to the world. As a registered organization working in all seven emirates, we have been organizing yoga celebrations since 2015. I am grateful to AURAK for its support that will help us take the global message of yoga to bigger audiences.”

A number of yoga practitioners and supporters were honoured at the function for their role in raising awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga. A number of attendees, including parents and children wearing specially designed T-shirts sporting the International Yoga Day logo, sat on mats as they watched the riveting yoga asanas and dance performances by young yoga practitioners.

Speaking on the occasion, Melissa Anne Winter, Manager, Department of Student Life, AURAK, expressed her pleasure at the turnout, and assured the gathering that the university will make sure that the celebrations are held on a bigger scale next year and in the years to come.