Yoga Transcends Religious Boundaries, Says Former Vice President Naidu

Hyderabad: At Secunderabad's Parade Grounds, former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu addressed a substantial crowd during International Yoga Day celebrations, emphasizing that yoga should not be interpreted through a religious framework. The event drew numerous public figures, political leaders, and yoga practitioners.

Naidu characterized yoga as among India's most significant gifts to humanity, noting that its benefits extend far beyond mere physical conditioning. According to him, the practice nurtures mental equilibrium, emotional resilience, and spiritual development. He cautioned that attributing yoga to any particular faith represents a fundamental misreading of its truly inclusive nature.

The former Vice President highlighted yoga's role in fostering human consciousness and promoting global brotherhood. He emphasized its capacity to alleviate psychological strain and fortify emotional well-being, encouraging attendees to adopt healthier living practices and maintain a connection with the natural world. Naidu stressed that Indian civilization has bequeathed to the world a comprehensive system supporting both bodily and mental health.

Dr K. Laxman, national president of the BJP OBC Morcha and Member of Parliament, also spoke at the gathering. He expressed pride in yoga's worldwide acceptance, describing it as an integral component of India's classical knowledge systems.

Ramchander Rao, president of the BJP's Telangana unit, credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with instrumental efforts in securing international recognition for yoga. He pointed out that nations globally now officially recognize International Yoga Day and actively promote yogic practices among their populations. Rao further noted that yoga serves as an effective tool for combating mental health challenges like depression, urging citizens across all age brackets to incorporate it into their everyday practices.