NY Event Rekindles The Spiritual Essence Of Yoga

Photos: Kripa Ranjan Prasad

India-West Staff Reporter

GREAT NECK, NY — In a heartfelt celebration aimed at restoring yoga’s spiritual roots, more than 200 people gathered on June 22 to mark the International Day of Yoga through reflection and meditation rather than physical postures. The event, titled The Spirit of Yoga, was co-hosted by Parveen Chopra of A Lotus In The Mud and the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization.

Departing from the typical emphasis on asanas and breathing exercises, the program introduced attendees to the higher dimensions of yoga, focusing on inner awareness, love, and spiritual connection.

Chopra co-emceed the event with Erik Larson, Director of the Brahma Kumaris WSO. Sister Anjani Seepersaud, Coordinator of Global Harmony House, welcomed guests and introduced the hosts.

Recognizing the widespread focus on asanas and pranayama in most Yoga Day programs and yoga studios, Chopra noted, “Asana practice will lead many to explore the spiritual side of yoga.”

Piyush Singh, Consul for Press, Information, and Culture at the Consulate General of India in New York, echoed that sentiment: “The energy and intent that radiate from this gathering truly reflect the deeper essence of yoga. Not merely asanas, yoga is a profound spiritual discipline that harmonizes body, mind, and soul.”

BK Mohini Didi, Chief Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris, shared her message via a recorded video. “The light of love is ignited in the heart,” she said. “When we connect to the Supreme, our vibrations touch the hearts of everyone in the world, so we can have peace.”

Sister Gayatri Naraine, the organization’s representative to the United Nations, elaborated on the role of Rajyoga meditation: “The first quality of Rajyoga is love. When you see your true self as love, you see everyone as brothers and sisters from your heart, not your mind.” She emphasized the collective power of individual meditation to effect global transformation.

Eddie Stern, a noted yoga instructor and founder of the Ganesha Temple in Manhattan, provided context for physical postures within the 8-limb yoga framework and guided the audience through the Brahma Mudra exercise.

Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena observed, “Yoga is not just movement—it’s a journey inward, a practice of stillness in a restless world.”

Other program highlights included Rakesh Bhargava, President of the World Vegan Vision (NY chapter), who spoke about the connection between a vegan lifestyle and yogic values; a dance performance by Dr. Anjali Grover that told the story of yoga; and a soothing sound bath meditation led by Andonia Fthenakis.

Earlier in the day, Steven Weinberg, Mayor of the Village of Thomaston in Great Neck, visited the venue to present an official Proclamation honoring the Brahma Kumaris for their service and spiritual contributions.

Reflecting India’s vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — The World is One Family — the event drew speakers and attendees from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, united in their shared pursuit of inner peace and global harmony.