"Yoga connects humanity and culture": Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri sends message on International Yoga Day
Colombo, June 21
Spiritual leader Bageshwar Dham Sarkar Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga.
The leader, who is currently in Sri Lanka, highlighted the essence of yoga, describing it as a practice of connection--not merely physical exercise or bodily postures, but a supreme mechanism for uniting the individual soul with the divine.
"Yoga signifies connection--a bond uniting humanity and culture," he said.
During his visit to Sri Lanka, the spiritual leader was joined by officials from the Indian High Commission, Sri Lankan government representatives, and local citizens.
Further highlighting the Indian tradition of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family), Bageshwar Dham Sarkar Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri noted that the aspiration for universal brotherhood begins with yoga.
"When an individual engages in yoga and physical exercise, their soul ascends towards the Divine, and their mindset expands to a global perspective," he said.
Urging everyone to adopt yoga, he stated that embracing it is essential for a happy life.
He also explained that rising early to behold the Sun God and bathing in his rays fosters physical health, further stressing that a healthy body leads to a healthy mind, and a healthy mind elevates the quality of one's life.
India observed the 12th International Day of Yoga under the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing".
The celebrations highlighted Yoga's role in promoting healthy lifestyles, active ageing and improved quality of life across generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga, performing yoga asanas alongside thousands of people at Kolkata's Red Road and asserting that yoga has the power to unite the entire world.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who started yoga for fitness but stayed for the peace of mind, this really resonates. I think people everywhere are rediscovering what Indian sages knew thousands of years ago. Modiji leading from the front in Kolkata sets a great example too!
Happy International Yoga Day! 🙏 I appreciate the emphasis on yoga as more than physical exercise. However, I wish the article also mentioned the scientific benefits more clearly for the skeptical younger generation. Still, a beautiful message from Sri Lanka showing our cultural diplomacy at its best.
Love seeing how yoga is bridging cultures globally! The fact that Acharya ji is in Sri Lanka with Indian High Commission officials shows real soft power. Yoga is truly India's gift to the world - no religion, just pure wellness and unity. 👏
Some good points but I feel the 'soul ascending to Divine' language might push away secular practitioners. Yoga should remain accessible to everyone regardless of belief. That said, the message of harmony and healthy ageing theme is spot on! 🧘♂️
Perfect timing with the 'healthy ageing' theme! My 70-year-old father started yoga last year and his energy levels have transformed. Happy to see Indian spiritual leaders promoting this ancient practice worldwide. Jai Yoga! 🇮🇳
A We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.