Srinagar, Jun 19 (KNO): Maiden floating yoga event on the waters of Pokhribal Lake on Friday added a unique dimension to the pre-celebration activities ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) in a first-of-its-kind initiative, internationally acclaimed water sports coach Bilquees Mir led a floating yoga session on the waters of Pokhribal Lake in Srinagar.
The unique event brought together students and water sports athletes who performed yoga postures while floating on the lake, blending the principles of wellness with Kashmir’s rich aquatic sporting culture.
Mir said the initiative was aimed at promoting both yoga and water sports while encouraging young people to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle.
Meanwhile, in Srinagar, scores of young participants gathered for a yoga session organised as part of the pre-celebration activities. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and fitness enthusiasts, reflecting the growing popularity of yoga among the younger generation.
Yoga coaches said awareness about yoga has increased significantly across Kashmir over the years. “Across the Valley, there is now an atmosphere of promoting yoga. Since International Yoga Day was declared by the Prime Minister, efforts have been intensified to spread awareness about yoga and its benefits,” a coach said.
Another coach, Basit, said yoga not only helps maintain physical fitness but also contributes to mental well-being, making it especially relevant in today's fast-paced lifestyle.
Participants said preparations for Yoga Day begin well in advance to maximise public awareness and participation.
“We prepare in advance with pre-celebrations. We practise many asanas ourselves and take part in regular sessions. The idea behind International Yoga Day is to raise awareness, and through these preparations we try to make people more conscious about yoga and healthy living,” said Saqib, a participant.
Notably, the events are part of a series of programmes being organised across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of International Yoga Day, which is observed annually on June 21—(KNO)