The spirit of yoga, wellness, and Indian heritage came alive in Dallas as the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial hosted grand International Yoga Day celebrations at the largest Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in the United States. More than 400 members of the Indian diaspora gathered to mark the occasion, making the event a resounding success.
Welcoming the attendees, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Secretary Rao Kalvala noted that Mahatma Gandhi himself practiced yoga and meditation regularly. He expressed his delight that International Yoga Day was being celebrated in the presence of Gandhi’s statue, symbolizing peace, discipline, and self-awareness.
Chief Guest and Consul General of India, Hon. D.C. Manjunath, highlighted the global significance of International Yoga Day. He recalled that the United Nations adopted the resolution in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which received support from 175 countries. Since the first celebration in 2015, millions of people around the world have embraced yoga every June 21. He described yoga as one of India’s greatest gifts to humanity, tracing its roots back to the teachings of Maharishi Patanjali.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Prasad Thotakura, Founding President of the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial, explained that the word “Yoga” signifies unity—the harmonious connection between the body, mind, and soul. He emphasized that regular yoga practice improves flexibility, strength, posture, and breathing while also helping reduce stress and anxiety in today’s fast-paced world. He encouraged everyone to make yoga a part of their daily lives, stating that healthier individuals contribute to stronger families, better communities, and a more peaceful world.
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Co-Chair Mahendra Rao shared that the organization has been celebrating International Yoga Day at the memorial for the past 12 years. He expressed happiness over the steadily increasing participation each year and thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the event.
A special yoga and meditation session, organized in collaboration with the Heartfulness Institute and led by Surekha Koya’s team, became one of the highlights of the celebration. The engaging 90-minute session provided participants with practical guidance on yoga and mindfulness in a refreshing and uplifting atmosphere.
At the conclusion of the event, Co-Chair Tayyab Kundawala extended heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, guests, sponsors, and participants whose support made the celebration a memorable success.
The event was attended by board members Deepak Kalra, Murali Vennam, Tayyab Kundawala, Kala Krishnamurthy, Harish Nehate, Ananth Mallavarapu, Vinod Uppu, and representatives from several community organizations.
The celebration served as a powerful reminder of yoga’s universal message of health, harmony, and inner peace, while showcasing the enduring legacy of Indian culture and values in the United States.
