Since the inception of International Yoga Day, it has gained recognition across the world, with active participation from people of all ages, including youth and the elderly. Many spiritual and social organisations have been consistently conducting workshops to promote yoga among the masses. One such large-scale celebration was held by Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), under its corporate workshop wing PEACE Program, in association with the Consulate General of India, Melbourne at Melton Community Hall. The event drew a crowd of nearly 150 participants, ranging from students to corporate professionals, and witnessed the presence of several dignitaries namely, Steve Mcghie (MP, Melton), Dr. Sushil Kumar (Consul General, CGI, Melbourne), Pradeep Tiwari (Mayor, Maribrynong City).
This two-hour program was led by three women sanyasis, disciples of Indian spiritual leader Ashutosh Maharaj, the founder and head of DJJS. These sessions provided an overall experience of Patanjali’s Ashtang Yog, encompassing its physical, psychological and spiritual dimensions.
The event commenced with the physical yog session led by Yoga expert of DJJS, Sadhvi Parma Bharti. She encouraged participants to integrate yoga into daily routines, be it while cooking, working or cleaning. She guided the audience through various yoga-asanas, stretching movements and aerobic exercises. Highlights included ‘Pad Bheda’, ‘Dhanurasana’, ‘Dandasana’, which were practiced by all attendees under live stage demonstrations.
Following this, Sadhvi Shailasa Bharti led the psychological yoga session. She introduced breathing techniques aimed at oxygenating the heart and lungs, focusing on pranayamas like ‘Naadi Shodhan’, ‘Kapalbhati’, ‘Anulom Vilom’ and others. Her humorous approach kept the atmosphere light-hearted while addressing serious topics like stress and emotional regulation. She also shared simple muscle relaxation techniques as quick fixes for anger and anxiety, which stood out as key takeaways.
The final segment, Metaphysical Yog, was conducted by Sadhvi Tapeshwari Bharti. She explored advanced yogic practices, including Yog Nidra and Dhyaan. Emphasizing the significance of Brahm Gyan, a method of perceiving the divine within (as she claimed), she highlighted its role in actualizing Dhyaan in everyday life. Drawing from ancient Indian scriptures as well as contemporary theories, Sadhvi encouraged the audience to embrace Patanjali’s eightfold path of yoga as a lifelong practice rather than a one-day observance.
MP Steve McGhie said, ‘It was such a terrific event. I know all of your [DJJS] events are amazing, and for what you do—not only within the Indian culture but also across our broader community. So, it’s a great honour as a member for Melton to be involved and also to participate.’
Consul General Dr. Sushil added, ‘First of all, I would like to thank the Sadhvis from India who introduced us to Indian culture and, more importantly, the rich tradition of Yog and the message of World Peace. I would also like to convey my regards to their organisation, DJJS, for organising such a wonderful event, and my best wishes for all the future events that you hold to promote Indian culture, traditions, and spirituality to the wider community here in Australia.’
The event was supported by multiple sponsors including Teesdale Family Medical Centre, Absolut Financial, Trinity Medical Group, Gurzora Homes, Perfect Web Designer, Commune Health Services, Lotus Family Clinic, Urban Dream Real Estate, Brilliant Migration Club, and SAM Hair & Beauty Spot. Community organizations such as Sahara Victorian Association, Let’s Feed, Vedic Global, Aastha, AHA, and MISC also extended their support.
