DENGKIL – On a bright and serene morning, the lush grounds of the Asia Retreat Centre in Dengkil, Selangor, blossomed with laughter, colour and the spirit of unity as people gathered to celebrate the 11th International Yoga Day.
Held on 22nd June 2025, the event carried the theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, drawing participants from across the globe from neighbouring countries to as far away as Japan and Sri Lanka who arrived with open hearts and eager minds.
The day began with a beautiful traditional ceremony, as His Excellency Mr. B.N. Reddy, the Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia, together with his gracious wife Lalita, lit the ‘kutthu vizhakku’ lamp symbolizing the light of peace, wisdom and collective hope.
The hall glowed softly with this flame, embodying the Brahma Kumaris belief that ‘when we ignite the light within, we illuminate the world around us’.
As morning sunlight streamed into the spacious hall, Mr. Pooi Cheng Fatt, Chairman of the Brahma Kumaris Foundation Asia, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. He shared how this year’s celebration focuses on caring for the Earth a reminder that our well-being is inextricably linked to the health of the planet.
“Yoga,” he said, “is not merely a practice of postures but a path that nourishes the Earth, the environment and every human soul. Health is our greatest treasure, and through yoga, we create a bridge between spiritual strength and physical wellness.”
Echoing this sentiment, His Excellency Mr. Reddy praised the Asia Retreat Centre, calling it the ‘crowning jewel of the Brahma Kumaris organisation outside India’.
He described the day as a moment of unity in diversity, noting that yoga recognized by the United Nations as a gift of ancient tradition brings people together through the harmony of mind, body and spirit.
He spoke of yoga’s growing importance in public health, particularly in supporting mental well-being, and lauded the Brahma Kumaris for tirelessly spreading peace, love and the universal message of hope through their global work.
As the hall filled with applause, the celebration flowed seamlessly into a spectacular dance performance by the Sega Intercontinental Yoga Alliance. Performers glided across the stage with dazzling synchrony, blending classical yoga movements with modern artistic flair.
Their display of strength, flexibility and grace drew gasps of admiration, reminding everyone of the joy and creativity at the heart of yoga practice.
The highlight of the day came when Didi Meera, head of the Brahma Kumaris Foundation Advisory Council, led an inspiring session on‘The Science of Raja Yoga Meditation – One Earth, One Health, One World Family’.
Her gentle voice guided the gathering into a profound space of stillness, encouraging participants to explore the silence within and discover the true power of a peaceful mind. For a few sacred moments, the hall became a haven of tranquillity a cocoon of peace where stress and tension melted away.
Throughout the day, participants also engaged in energising yoga and pranayama sessions that filled the air with calm focus and collective breath.
Smiles and laughter mingled with moments of quiet reflection. Beyond the hall, colourful exhibitions bustled with life: stalls showcasing aromatherapy, herbal and plant wellness, bamboo art, Chinese calligraphy, tobacco control promotion and even raw honey tasting drew curious crowds.
Free health screenings and consultations offered visitors practical care alongside spiritual nourishment, reflecting the Brahma Kumaris’ holistic approach to well-being.
By the time the sun dipped lower in the sky, hearts were full, minds were clear and spirits soared high. In every corner of the retreat centre, the Brahma Kumaris message echoed: ‘When we heal ourselves, we heal the world. When we come together in peace, we create a new world of harmony’.
As participants departed, many carried with them not just the memory of a beautiful day, but also a renewed commitment to honour the Earth, cherish health and nurture peace within and all around. -MalayaDailyToday
