CHANDIGARH, 21.06.26-The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, observed the 12th International Day of Yoga 2026 with enthusiasm and a spirit of togetherness, bringing together healthcare professionals, faculty members, students, employees, and their families in a celebration of wellness through yoga. The event was graced by
Dr Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, Mr. Pankaj Raj, Deputy Director Administration,DrR.K.Ratho,Dean(Academic),DrSanjayJain,Dean(Research)and Dr J.S.Thakur, President,World NCD Federation.
Organized by the CCRYN - Collaborative Centre for Mind Body Intervention through Yoga– PGIMER (Yoga centre), the early morning programme at the Institute's Sports Complex witnessed 3217 participants despite the weekly holiday and NEET exam from diverse age groups performing Common Yoga Protocol aimed at fostering physical vitality and mental well-being. The ground level coordination of event was done by Miss Jyoti Tiwari, Yoga Spoke, Yoga Centre and team under supervision of Mr. Saurabh Kumar, Research Officer, Yoga Centre.
The celebration assumed special significance as this year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," drew attention to the growing need for adopting lifestyle practices that support health and independence across the lifespan. In an era of increasing longevity, yoga offers a simple, cost-effective, and evidence-based approach to enhancing strength, flexibility, balance, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. The message resonated strongly among the participants, particularly healthcare workers who often face demanding professional responsibilities. Program was organised with support from all PGI associations, Eli lily, Allengers, Max protein and World NCD Federation.
The programme began with the ceremonial lighting ofthe lamp. Dr Akshay Anand,Professor In-charge, Yoga centre, welcomed all the faculties, staff and students. He highlighted role of Yoga in preventive healthcare and informed that Yoga practice delays cellular ageing, improves neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve by meditation and improves autonomic balance by relaxation. He informed that ongoing research on Yoga at PGIMER has shown promising results so far and invited the participants to Yoga centre, PGIMER where 38 Yoga sessions are provided, daily.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER said “Yoga is a way you behave positively, Yoga is a way you think positively, Yoga is a way you act positively”. The Director was pleased to see younger audience in the audience who are future of India in taking its heritage further. The encouraging words of Director was followed by the felicitation of senior Institute functionaries and MD students who have taken up Yoga research at PGIMER.
A musical yoga demonstration and skit on principles of Ashtanga Yoga by experts from the Yoga Centre increased enthusiasm among the attendees. This was followed by the Common Yoga Protocol, led by Dr. Monika Gautam, Research Officer, Yoga Centre, assisted by Mr. Kalyan Maity, Yoga Therapist, Yoga Centre during which participants collectively practiseda sequence of asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques recommended for individuals of all age groups.
The event reflected PGIMER's continuing commitment to advancing holistic health and wellness initiatives within the healthcare community. Through regular yoga programmes and awareness activities, the Institute seeks to encourage healthcare professionals and the public alike to embrace healthier lifestyles and prioritize self-care alongside patient care.
The celebration concluded with refreshments and informal interactions among participants, leaving behind a renewed sense of well-being and a shared resolve to make yoga an integral part of everyday life.