Gandhinagar, June 21, 2026: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Gandhinagar celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 with great enthusiasm under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Sameer Sood, Director, NIFT Gandhinagar. The event aligned with this year’s global theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” (स्वस्थ आयु के लिए योग), highlighting the importance of Yoga in promoting lifelong health, wellness, and active living.
As societies worldwide witness increasing life expectancy and rising lifestyle-related health challenges, the focus has shifted towards enhancing health span, quality of life, and overall well-being. Recognizing Yoga as a powerful preventive and holistic practice, NIFT Gandhinagar joined the nationwide observance to encourage the adoption of healthy habits through regular Yoga practice.
The Yoga session was conducted by Ms. Hemlata Patel, Senior Yoga Teacher, following the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Government of India. Ms. Patel is a recipient of the Gujarat State Yogini Award 2026 and the Best Yoga Coordinator of Gujarat State Award 2024. She currently serves as Yoga Guru at the Ayush Health and Wellness Centre, Gandhinagar, and is the Vice President of the Yogini Association of Gujarat.
Adding a special touch to the celebration, children from Sarjan Foundation, Gandhinagar, performed Yoga demonstrations under the guidance of Ms. Hemlata Patel and her team member Mr. Jigar Solanki. Participants from Yoga Studio, Gandhinagar, also showcased various Yoga postures, reflecting the discipline, dedication, and benefits associated with regular Yoga practice.
A major highlight of the event was an impressive demonstration of advanced Yoga Asanas by Ms. Neha Thakkar, Physical Education and Bhagavad Gita Teacher from Surat. Her exceptional flexibility, balance, and mastery of advanced postures captivated the audience and inspired participants to explore the deeper dimensions of Yoga.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from officers, faculty members, staff, students, and special invitees from Sarjan Foundation. The celebration reinforced the spirit of “Yoga 365”, encouraging individuals to integrate Yoga into their daily lives throughout the year rather than limiting it to a single-day observance.
On the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Sameer Sood felicitated the instructors, performers, and child participants from Sarjan Foundation with tokens of appreciation, recognizing their valuable contribution to promoting Yoga and wellness across generations.
Through such initiatives, NIFT Gandhinagar continues to champion holistic well-being and foster a culture of physical fitness, mental wellness, mindfulness, and balanced living among its academic community and society at large.