Chennai: The third yoga day, which will be observed on June 21, will most likely see the greater participation of numerous yoga institutes, exponents and enthusiasts in Tamil Nadu, stretching, bending and breathing in a regulated manner. Union ministers will lead the third International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebration in Chennai and Coimbatore.
The state government is yet to get actively involved in the celebrations, given the present political crisis. “When it comes to teaching yoga or striving for the cause of this ancient Indian science that promotes disease-free long life, the yoga gurus have been contributing a lot and have been organised in propagating this art,” yoga Acharya Srinivasan said. He, however, had a word of praise for the Centre, which is involved in the cause of promoting yoga.
In 2014, after he became Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the 193-member UN General Assembly in United Nations called for adopting an International Yoga Day. Following this, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. (Word ‘yoga’ is derived from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolising the union of body and consciousness).
In Chennai, various organisations have planned to organise the celebrations in a grand manner involving the participation of over 2,000 persons. In Tambaram, the National Institute of Siddha (NIS) has proposed to hold a spectacular show in which 500 persons will display their skills in performing various asanas. The unique feature of this institute is that it combines yoga and Siddha medicine to treat various ailments.
According to sources, Union minister of state for road transport, highways and shipping Pon Radhakrishnan is likely to participate in the celebrations in the city while Union minister of state for tourism and culture Mahesh Sharma will participate in the celebrations to be held at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore. Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao will be the chief guest.
