Kasaragod: The Central University of Kerala (CUK) celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga with fervour at its campus in Periya. The program, organised by the Department of Yoga Studies, aligned with the theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ drew around 300 participants, including faculty, students, staff, and members from nearby institutions.

The program was presided over by Vice Chancellor Prof. Siddu P. Algur. In his presidential address, Prof. Algur underscored CUK’s unwavering commitment to commemorating International Yoga Day over the past eleven years. He highlighted the theme as a reminder of the interconnectedness of personal and planetary health. He referred to the massive national and global celebrations of Yoga Day - including the Common Yoga Protocol being performed at over one lakh locations, the Yoga Bandhan initiative, the ten signature events, and the Yoga Sangam, all of which reflect the rising international acceptance and integration of yoga as both a health discipline and cultural heritage.

Chief guest Prof. K. Krishna Sharma, former professor at the Department of Human Consciousness and Yogic Sciences, Mangalore University, delivered the Yoga Day message. He highlighted scientific research supporting yoga’s role in enhancing mental clarity, emotional regulation, and physical health, emphasising meditation as a core practice for inner transformation and awareness.

Dr. Subramanya Pailoor, Head, Department of Yoga Studies, welcomed the gathering and Dr. M. Anjaladevi, Assistant Professor, Department of Yoga Studies, proposed the vote of thanks. Registrar Dr. M. Muralidharan Nambiar, Dean Students’ Welfare Prof. Rajendra Pilankatta, and Dean of the School of Medicine and Public Health Prof. Mathew George attended the event.

The program featured yoga practices and cultural performances. Participants engaged in the Common Yoga Protocol, including asanas, pranayama, and meditation, followed by the Yoga Pledge to promote yoga’s values. Cultural highlights included artistic yoga demonstrations by Yogasana Bharath, a spiritual thread art display, a Bharatnatyam performance, and a dynamic yoga dance by yoga studies students, showcasing yoga’s integration with Indian traditions.