The UK will open a combined 1,800 annual visa places for Indian traditional chefs, classical musicians and yoga instructors when the UK–India trade agreement takes effect on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The allocation falls under the Global Business Mobility–Service Supplier route. It is one shared cap covering all three occupations, not 1,800 places for each profession. The annual allocation is measured from January 1 through December 31.
The UK will open a combined 1,800 annual visa places for Indian traditional chefs, classical musicians and yoga instructors when the UK–India trade agreement takes effect on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The allocation falls under the Global Business Mobility–Service Supplier route. It is one shared cap covering all three occupations, not 1,800 places for each profession. The annual allocation is measured from January 1 through December 31.
Indian Army sniffer dogs joined their handlers for International Yoga Day activities on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Siachen Glacier, where troops operate at elevations above 18,000 feet.
Indian Army Sniffer Dogs Join Yoga Day at Siachen
Known as the “Siachen Sniffers,” the specially trained dogs stood alongside personnel from the Fire & Fury Corps as yoga sessions were held amid deep snow, icy winds and thin air on the world’s highest battlef
Indian Army sniffer dogs joined their handlers for International Yoga Day activities on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Siachen Glacier, where troops operate at elevations above 18,000 feet.
Indian Army Sniffer Dogs Join Yoga Day at Siachen
Known as the “Siachen Sniffers,” the specially trained dogs stood alongside personnel from the Fire & Fury Corps as yoga sessions were held amid deep snow, icy winds and thin air on the world’s highest battlef
PM Modi Leads International Yoga Day 2026 From Kolkata’s Red Road
Kolkata became the national focus of India’s global wellness message on Sunday, June 21, 2026, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the city’s historic Red Road.
The event marked one of the biggest public gatherings for Yoga Day 2026, with the theme “Yoga for Healthy
PM Modi Leads International Yoga Day 2026 From Kolkata’s Red Road
Kolkata became the national focus of India’s global wellness message on Sunday, June 21, 2026, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the city’s historic Red Road.
The event marked one of the biggest public gatherings for Yoga Day 2026, with the theme “Yoga for Healthy
International Yoga Day 2026 will be celebrated across the globe on Sunday, June 21, bringing together millions of people in a collective effort to promote health, wellness, and mindfulness through the practice of yoga. Observed annually on June 21, the International Day of Yoga highlights the importance of integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being into daily life. Originating in ancient India, yoga has evolved into a globally recognized practice that helps i
International Yoga Day 2026 will be celebrated across the globe on Sunday, June 21, bringing together millions of people in a collective effort to promote health, wellness, and mindfulness through the practice of yoga. Observed annually on June 21, the International Day of Yoga highlights the importance of integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being into daily life. Originating in ancient India, yoga has evolved into a globally recognized practice that helps i
Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Chicago in 1893 remains a defining moment in the global exchange of spiritual and cultural ideas. He traveled to the United States to participate in the World’s Parliament of Religions, an international gathering held as part of the Columbian Exposition. His address on September 11, 1893, is widely remembered for its message of unity and universal acceptance.
Opening his speech with the now-famous greeting, “Brothers and Sisters of America,” Vivekananda immediately connected with the audience, receiving a prolonged standing ovation. His remarks emphasized the shared essence of all religions and advocated for tolerance, mutual respect, and compassion. He presented the principles of Vedanta and Yoga as paths toward understanding humanity’s deeper spiritual nature, highlighting that true religion transcends rigid doctrines.
The impact of his speech extended far beyond the event itself. Vivekananda’s ideas resonated strongly with American audiences, introducing many to Indian philosophical traditions for the first time. His teachings contributed to a broader awareness of Hinduism and helped establish a foundation for ongoing cultural and intellectual dialogue between India and the West.
In India, his legacy continues to inspire generations, particularly through the observance of National Youth Day on January 12, his birth anniversary. Declared by the Government of India in 1984, the day is marked by educational and cultural activities across schools and institutions. These events reflect Vivekananda’s enduring message of self-confidence, service, and the transformative power of knowledge.
Through his writings and lectures, inspired by his guru Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Vivekananda encouraged young people to pursue both personal growth and social responsibility. His influence remains significant today, as his vision of harmony and spiritual awareness continues to shape conversations on global unity and cultural understanding.
Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Chicago in 1893 remains a defining moment in the global exchange of spiritual and cultural ideas. He traveled to the United States to participate in the World’s Parliament of Religions, an international gathering held as part of the Columbian Exposition. His address on September 11, 1893, is widely remembered for its message of unity and universal acceptance.
Opening his speech with the now-famous greeting, “Brothers and Sisters of America,” Vivekananda immediately connected with the audience, receiving a prolonged standing ovation. His remarks emphasized the shared essence of all religions and advocated for tolerance, mutual respect, and compassion. He presented the principles of Vedanta and Yoga as paths toward understanding humanity’s deeper spiritual nature, highlighting that true religion transcends rigid doctrines.
The impact of his speech extended far beyond the event itself. Vivekananda’s ideas resonated strongly with American audiences, introducing many to Indian philosophical traditions for the first time. His teachings contributed to a broader awareness of Hinduism and helped establish a foundation for ongoing cultural and intellectual dialogue between India and the West.
In India, his legacy continues to inspire generations, particularly through the observance of National Youth Day on January 12, his birth anniversary. Declared by the Government of India in 1984, the day is marked by educational and cultural activities across schools and institutions. These events reflect Vivekananda’s enduring message of self-confidence, service, and the transformative power of knowledge.
Through his writings and lectures, inspired by his guru Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Vivekananda encouraged young people to pursue both personal growth and social responsibility. His influence remains significant today, as his vision of harmony and spiritual awareness continues to shape conversations on global unity and cultural understanding.
Paramapujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji marked a historic milestone with his 365th “Music for Meditation and Healing” concert, titled Indraprastha Raga Sagara, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on Sunday, April 19, 2026 (IST). Renowned violinist Dr. L. Subraman
Paramapujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji marked a historic milestone with his 365th “Music for Meditation and Healing” concert, titled Indraprastha Raga Sagara, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on Sunday, April 19, 2026 (IST). Renowned violinist Dr. L. Subraman
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is often observed with fasting, temple visits and devotional practices, but traditional sources describe it as far more than a symbolic religious occasion. Ancient Hindu texts and yogic teachings present the observance as a carefully timed alignment of cosmic movements, biological rhythms and human consciousness, established long before the emergence of modern scientific terminology. The day is traditionally observed during Dhanur Masa, in the bright fortnight of Margashirsha, immediately preceding Makara Sankranti, when the Sun begins its northward journey known as Uttarayana.
While many temples ceremonially open a northern gate on this day, classical interpretations clarify that the reference is not primarily architectural. Yogic literature describes Vaikuntha as a state beyond limitation and suffering, and Dvara as a gateway. Together, the term points toward an internal transition rather than a physical passage. According to yogic physiology, this gateway corresponds to the Sushumna Nadi, the central energy channel that runs along the spinal axis. Texts such as the Shiva Samhita state that liberation is experienced when prana, or vital energy, flows freely through this central channel without obstruction.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is observed on Ekadashi tithi, a lunar phase traditionally associated with reduced digestive activity in the human body. Yogic science holds that on this day the digestive system operates at a minimum, making fasting less stressful on the body. Through fasting, the downward-moving energy known as Apana Vayu is restrained, allowing prana to move upward more naturally. This upward movement is believed to balance the Ida and Pingala nadis, often described as the lunar and solar energy channels, creating conditions favorable for the activation of the Sushumna Nadi. Contemporary scientific research into fasting has begun to recognize restorative processes that align with these ancient observations.
Classical yogic texts further explain this mechanism. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika notes that when food intake and sensory distractions are restrained, prana is more likely to enter the central channel. The timing of Vaikuntha Ekadashi coincides with the Sun’s transition toward Uttarayana, symbolically mirroring the upward movement of consciousness described in yogic practices. This phase is traditionally associated with the awakening of higher centers of awareness, moving from the lower chakras toward Ajna and Sahasrara.
Hindu scriptures also describe cosmic time in a distinctive way, defining a single day of the devas as consisting of six months of Uttarayana and six months of Dakshinayana. In this framework, one human year equals one full day and night for celestial beings. Vaikuntha Ekadashi is therefore regarded as marking a cosmic dawn within this larger cycle.
Devotional practices on this day traditionally include the recitation of the Dwadashakshari mantra, Om Namo Narayanaya, as a form of japa. Beyond ritual observance, the day is understood as an opportunity for internal alignment, where seasonal astronomy, lunar dynamics and human physiology converge. Ancient seers embedded this observance into the calendar as a reminder of harmony between the cosmos and the individual.
The invocation Hari Om, often associated with Vaikuntha Ekadashi, reflects this integrated vision. Hari signifies the principle that removes sorrow, ignorance and bondage, while Om represents the primordial sound identified with ultimate reality. Together, they express an aspiration toward clarity and balance within the larger cosmic order.
Viewed through this lens, Vaikuntha Ekadashi stands as a structured convergence of spiritual practice and natural rhythms, emphasizing introspection, restraint and alignment rather than mere ritual formality.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is often observed with fasting, temple visits and devotional practices, but traditional sources describe it as far more than a symbolic religious occasion. Ancient Hindu texts and yogic teachings present the observance as a carefully timed alignment of cosmic movements, biological rhythms and human consciousness, established long before the emergence of modern scientific terminology. The day is traditionally observed during Dhanur Masa, in the bright fortnight of Margashirsha, immediately preceding Makara Sankranti, when the Sun begins its northward journey known as Uttarayana.
While many temples ceremonially open a northern gate on this day, classical interpretations clarify that the reference is not primarily architectural. Yogic literature describes Vaikuntha as a state beyond limitation and suffering, and Dvara as a gateway. Together, the term points toward an internal transition rather than a physical passage. According to yogic physiology, this gateway corresponds to the Sushumna Nadi, the central energy channel that runs along the spinal axis. Texts such as the Shiva Samhita state that liberation is experienced when prana, or vital energy, flows freely through this central channel without obstruction.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is observed on Ekadashi tithi, a lunar phase traditionally associated with reduced digestive activity in the human body. Yogic science holds that on this day the digestive system operates at a minimum, making fasting less stressful on the body. Through fasting, the downward-moving energy known as Apana Vayu is restrained, allowing prana to move upward more naturally. This upward movement is believed to balance the Ida and Pingala nadis, often described as the lunar and solar energy channels, creating conditions favorable for the activation of the Sushumna Nadi. Contemporary scientific research into fasting has begun to recognize restorative processes that align with these ancient observations.
Classical yogic texts further explain this mechanism. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika notes that when food intake and sensory distractions are restrained, prana is more likely to enter the central channel. The timing of Vaikuntha Ekadashi coincides with the Sun’s transition toward Uttarayana, symbolically mirroring the upward movement of consciousness described in yogic practices. This phase is traditionally associated with the awakening of higher centers of awareness, moving from the lower chakras toward Ajna and Sahasrara.
Hindu scriptures also describe cosmic time in a distinctive way, defining a single day of the devas as consisting of six months of Uttarayana and six months of Dakshinayana. In this framework, one human year equals one full day and night for celestial beings. Vaikuntha Ekadashi is therefore regarded as marking a cosmic dawn within this larger cycle.
Devotional practices on this day traditionally include the recitation of the Dwadashakshari mantra, Om Namo Narayanaya, as a form of japa. Beyond ritual observance, the day is understood as an opportunity for internal alignment, where seasonal astronomy, lunar dynamics and human physiology converge. Ancient seers embedded this observance into the calendar as a reminder of harmony between the cosmos and the individual.
The invocation Hari Om, often associated with Vaikuntha Ekadashi, reflects this integrated vision. Hari signifies the principle that removes sorrow, ignorance and bondage, while Om represents the primordial sound identified with ultimate reality. Together, they express an aspiration toward clarity and balance within the larger cosmic order.
Viewed through this lens, Vaikuntha Ekadashi stands as a structured convergence of spiritual practice and natural rhythms, emphasizing introspection, restraint and alignment rather than mere ritual formality.
SGS Devotional Music Course – Offered by Yoga Sangeeta, USA
Embark on a soulful musical journey with the SGS Devotional Music Course, starting October 1st. This unique program is designed for all levels — from beginners to advanced learners — and is guided by an expert panel of music teachers.
SGS Devotional Music Course – Offered by Yoga Sangeeta, USA
Embark on a soulful musical journey with the SGS Devotional Music Course, starting October 1st. This unique program is designed for all levels — from beginners to advanced learners — and is guided by an expert panel of music teachers.
Columbus is getting ready for another exciting weekend filled with events, activities, and entertainment that appeal to families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy the best of central Ohio. From thrilling aerial performances to peaceful yoga with adorable puppies, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the city and surrounding communities.
One of the biggest highlights this weekend is the Columbus Air Show, a
Columbus is getting ready for another exciting weekend filled with events, activities, and entertainment that appeal to families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy the best of central Ohio. From thrilling aerial performances to peaceful yoga with adorable puppies, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the city and surrounding communities.
One of the biggest highlights this weekend is the Columbus Air Show, a
Pregnancy is a time of profound change, and taking care of your mental and physical health can positively impact both you and your baby. Prenatal yoga has been shown to reduce stress hormones, improve maternal health, and even boost your baby’s birth weight. In an interview with Dr. Pooja C Thukral, Associate Director of Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, she shared expert tips on incorporating yoga into your routine during pregnancy. Here are t
Pregnancy is a time of profound change, and taking care of your mental and physical health can positively impact both you and your baby. Prenatal yoga has been shown to reduce stress hormones, improve maternal health, and even boost your baby’s birth weight. In an interview with Dr. Pooja C Thukral, Associate Director of Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, she shared expert tips on incorporating yoga into your routine during pregnancy. Here are t
In a landmark celebration of the 11th International Yoga Day, the tranquil beaches of Visakhapatnam transformed into a vibrant hub of wellness and unity. Under the global theme "One Earth, One Health," the event brought together Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and Minister Nara Lokesh for a spectacular coastal yoga session that attracted thousands of participants fr
In a landmark celebration of the 11th International Yoga Day, the tranquil beaches of Visakhapatnam transformed into a vibrant hub of wellness and unity. Under the global theme "One Earth, One Health," the event brought together Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and Minister Nara Lokesh for a spectacular coastal yoga session that attracted thousands of participants fr
India is set to mark the 10th anniversary of International Yoga Day on June 21, 2025, with a record-breaking scale of celebration. More than 2,000 yoga events will be organized across 1,300 global locations, spanning 191 countries. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the cultural wing of the Ministry of External Affairs, is spearheading the effort, showcasing yoga not just as an ancient practice, but as a powerful symbol of India's soft power
India is set to mark the 10th anniversary of International Yoga Day on June 21, 2025, with a record-breaking scale of celebration. More than 2,000 yoga events will be organized across 1,300 global locations, spanning 191 countries. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the cultural wing of the Ministry of External Affairs, is spearheading the effort, showcasing yoga not just as an ancient practice, but as a powerful symbol of India's soft power
On June 21, 2025, countries across the Northern Hemisphere will witness the longest day and shortest night of the year, a phenomenon known as the summer solstice. This astronomical event occurs when the Earth's axial tilt leans most directly toward the Sun, causing it to reach its highest point in the sky above the Tropic of Cancer. As a result, regions from India to Europe and the United States will enjoy extended hours of daylight.
On June 21, 2025, countries across the Northern Hemisphere will witness the longest day and shortest night of the year, a phenomenon known as the summer solstice. This astronomical event occurs when the Earth's axial tilt leans most directly toward the Sun, causing it to reach its highest point in the sky above the Tropic of Cancer. As a result, regions from India to Europe and the United States will enjoy extended hours of daylight.
June 21 marks the 11th International Yoga Day, a global celebration of yoga’s profound impact on physical, mental, and emotional health. Initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, this day recognizes yoga as a powerful tool for promoting global wellness. For 2025, the theme announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” highlights yoga’s unifying and healing power across huma
June 21 marks the 11th International Yoga Day, a global celebration of yoga’s profound impact on physical, mental, and emotional health. Initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, this day recognizes yoga as a powerful tool for promoting global wellness. For 2025, the theme announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” highlights yoga’s unifying and healing power across huma
International Yoga Day 2025 will be celebrated on Saturday, June 21, 2025, across the globe. This marks the 10th anniversary of the global observance that celebrates yoga as a holistic practice promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Recognised by the United Nations in 2014, the day commemorates an ancient Indian tradition that has become a global movement for wellness and inner peace.
When is Int
International Yoga Day 2025 will be celebrated on Saturday, June 21, 2025, across the globe. This marks the 10th anniversary of the global observance that celebrates yoga as a holistic practice promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Recognised by the United Nations in 2014, the day commemorates an ancient Indian tradition that has become a global movement for wellness and inner peace.
When is Int
Tadasana: This is full body balance asana. It stretches the vertebrae, abdominal muscles and intestines. It clears up the congestion of nerves along the spine. Tones up muscles, ligaments in the legs, arms and along the back. Ideal for children as it stretches their spine, thus prompting them to achieve maximum height possible, which sometimes is stunted because of poor posture or
Tadasana: This is full body balance asana. It stretches the vertebrae, abdominal muscles and intestines. It clears up the congestion of nerves along the spine. Tones up muscles, ligaments in the legs, arms and along the back. Ideal for children as it stretches their spine, thus prompting them to achieve maximum height possible, which sometimes is stunted because of poor posture or
