Auroville Joins the International Day of Yoga – My Two-Day Journey of Energy and Awareness

-SandhiyaBala, Sivaguru and Ajay I

This year, Auroville joined people around the world in celebrating the International Day of Yoga on June 21st, a special day declared by the United Nations in 2014. Two events were held on June 20th and 21st, and I had the opportunity to participate in both. It was a joyful and meaningful experience for me.

Day 1: Surya Namaskar Challenge

20 June, 6:30 AM | Dehashakti Sports Ground

Many people came together early in the morning at the sports ground for the Surya Namaskar Challenge. There were three levels to choose from:

• Beginner (Ārambhakaḥ): 21 Surya Namaskars
• Intermediate (Madhyamaḥ): 54 Surya Namaskars
• Advanced (Pravīṇaḥ): 108 Surya Namaskars

I was happy to see children from schools around Auroville taking part. Their energy and interest were inspiring. I felt tired after doing the Surya Namaskars, but I also felt strong, fresh, and peaceful inside.

This event made me realize how important it is to take care of our body and mind. I now want to practice yoga every day, even if just for a short time.

Day 2: International Day of Yoga Celebration

21 June, 5:30–7:00 AM | Amphitheatre, Matrimandir

The next morning, we gathered at the beautiful Amphitheatre near the Matrimandir. The place was silent and peaceful. As the sun came up, we practiced yoga together. It was a special feeling to do yoga in this sacred place with people of all ages.

It was not just about exercise—it was also about connecting with ourselves, being still, and breathing mindfully. I felt very calm and full of positive energy afterward.

Reflection:

Sandhiya Balaanand- What I Take Away

My name is Sandhiya Balaanand, and I stand for Courage, care, and Happiness for myself and others. I notice that participating in both events was not only rejuvenating but also a personal awakening. Watching the younger generation participate and interact with such sincerity gave me hope.

These two days reminded me that yoga is not just for one day. It can be a daily habit to help us stay healthy and happy.

I want to thank Nilima and Muthukumari from AVPEB and the Marathon Yoga Team for organizing these events. It was wonderful to be part of them.

I also saw how much children enjoyed and learned from the sessions. It gave me hope for the future—when young people understand the value of yoga, they grow stronger and wiser.

Sivaguru Prasath:

My name is Sivaguru Prasath and i stand for courage, full potential and Equanimity for myself and others. Being part of the Yoga Day events in Auroville made me feel fresh, calm, and more connected with myself. Seeing so many children and people join inspired me to practice yoga every day, even if just for a few minutes. Yoga is not just for one day—it’s a way to live better every day

Ajay:

My name is Ajay and I stand for self awareness for myself and others. Attending the Surya Namaskar Challenge and the International Yoga Day in Auroville was amazing. On Day 1, doing Surya Namaskars with kids around was energizing—it reminded me how movement connects us. Day 2 at the Matrimandir was peaceful and spiritual. Practicing yoga in that space made me feel calm and centered. These two days showed me how yoga strengthens both body and mind. Now, I feel inspired to continue yoga daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes.