"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
21 Jun 2023
Surat has made history on Wednesday morning as more than one lakh people gathered for an International Yoga Day event, setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people participating in a yoga session in one location. The impressive session took place under the watchful eyes of Guinness World Records officials, marking a significant achievement for the city.
The event, held at the Y junction area in Vesu, Surat, saw the attendance of several notable figures, including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, state BJP president C R Paatil, and various ministers. Surat Municipal Corporation, the police department, and the district administration collaborated with dedicated individuals to meticulously plan and execute this historic yoga gathering.
Enthusiastic participants began arriving as early as 5 am, with organizers efficiently dividing them into 125 blocks, each consisting of 1,000 individuals, spanning a 12 km stretch from Vesu to the ONGC circle and across the Y junction—an epicenter of the event.
C R Paatil emphasized the significance of following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's example of fitness and regular yoga practice. Celebrating the achievement, he highlighted the global impact of yoga, noting that more than 176 countries have embraced International Yoga Day.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel praised yogacharyas (yoga teachers) and rishi munis (sages) for teaching the importance of leading a healthy and stress-free life through daily yoga practice.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a visit to the United States, addressed the gathering virtually, expressing his pride in the global recognition of International Yoga Day and its positive impact.
Surat's record-breaking yoga gathering not only made headlines but also proves the city's dedication to promoting holistic well-being and unity on a global scale.