Amidst the tranquil and spiritual backdrop of the Himalayas, the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh, hosted a special one-day event titled “Samyoga” on 16th June. Experts from 10 Indian states gathered to explore the deep connection between Yoga and traditional healing systems as part of the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, themed “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
The day began with a ceremonial Lighting of the Lamp by the Chief Guest and dignitaries, followed by the sacred Medicine Buddha prayer, setting a deeply spiritual tone for the gathering. Dr. Padma Gurmet, Director of NISR, Leh, warmly welcomed the participants and shared an insightful overview of the institute’s multifaceted efforts to promote Yoga in integration with Sowa-Rigpa—an ancient Tibetan system of medicine that remains an integral part of Ladakh’s healing traditions.
The event was honored by the presence of Dr. Raghavendra Rao, Director of the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), New Delhi, who attended as the Chief Guest. Distinguished Guests of Honour included Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre; Dr. Tashi Thinlas, Director of Health, UT Ladakh; and Dr. Satya Lakshmi, Director of the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), Pune.
The highlight of Samyoga 2025 was a rich series of lectures and scientific presentations that underscored the growing evidence on the health benefits of Yoga and the importance of holistic wellness. Presenters included:
- Dr. Amit Kanthi, from Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthan, Bangalore, who shed light on recent findings in Yoga science.
- Ms. Nityatara Raina, a Yoga therapist from Mumbai, who shared therapeutic case studies.
- Lt. Col. Rahul Manral, from High Altitude Medical Research Centre, 153 GH, Leh, Ladakh, who discussed Yoga’s role in resilience and adaptation in extreme conditions.
- Dr. Phuntsog Angchok, President, Arogya Bharti, Ladakh, emphasized the integration of Yoga with indigenous practices.
Adding further depth to the discussions, renowned Sowa-Rigpa scholars—Dr. (Prof.) Nawang Tangais, Dr. (Prof.) Tsering Thakchoe, and Dr. Pasang Dolma, Associate Professor at NISR—shared traditional insights on health and healing, emphasizing how Yoga can complement and enhance the effectiveness of Sowa-Rigpa practices.
The event showcased the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa’s ongoing collaborative efforts with organizations like the Maha Bodhi International Meditation Centre, the Administration of UT Ladakh, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) to celebrate the spirit of Yoga on a national scale.
True to its name, “Samyoga”—which means union, the event successfully fostered a sense of unity among diverse healing traditions, scientific inquiry, and community wellness. The sessions not only deepened understanding of Yoga’s physiological and psychological benefits but also highlighted its potential to serve as a bridge between modern research and ancient wisdom.
As India and the world prepare to observe the 11th International Day of Yoga, events like Samyoga 2025 reaffirm the country’s commitment to promoting Yoga as a tool for universal harmony, sustainable health, and inner peace—in alignment with the principle of One Earth, One Health.
