29th Annual, World Renowned INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL at Parmarth Niketan 2018 ()

Parmarth Niketan | 1 2 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 3 4 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 5 6 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 7 Contents

10 ABOUT PARMARTH NIKETAN 12 PUJYA SWAMIJI & SADHVI BHAGAWATIJI’S BLESSINGS 14 INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL 2018 20 REGISTRATION 22 DAY 1: Union of Yoga Begins 26 DAY 2: Holi Celebrations 30 DAY 3 & INAUGURATION by Hon’ble Vice President of 38 DAY 4: Yogis Join in Prayer & Meditation 42 DAY 5: Yogis Celebrate at Maharishi Mahesh Yogiji’s Ashram 46 DAY 6: Science & Spirituality Come Together at IYF 50 DAY 7: IYF Concludes with Over 2000 Participants from 100 Countries 54 CONCLUDING CEREMONY 58 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 62 TESTIMONIALS: Uplifting Connections 64 MEDIA COVERAGE 67 TWEETS ABOUT IYF: The Festival Creates a Buzz 68 YOGA OFF THE MAT

8 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 9 About Parmarth Niketan

Home to the World Renowned, Annual International Yoga Festival

HH PUJYA SWAMI H.H. PUJYA HH PUJYA SWAMI SHUKDEVANAND MM SWAMI CHIDANAND SARASWATIJI ASANGANANDJI SARASWATIJI Founder of Managing Trustee of President of Swami Shukdevanand Trust Swami Shukdevanand Trust Parmarth Niketan (Rishikesh)

Yoga is practiced by some 300 million people worldwide, making Parmarth Niketan’s International Yoga Festival a tremendous draw for individuals from around the world.

armarth Niketan Ashram was you will feel your soul bathing in the founded by HH Pujya Swami peace of sacred energies, including those PShukdevanand Saraswatiji, in the that emanate from nature and those that early 1940’s. The ashram is currently linger from the timeless healing powers blessed by HH Pujya MM Swami of saints, sages and enlightened Asanganand Saraswatiji and masters. guided by the leadership and vision of HH Pujya Swami Parmarth Niketan is also one Chidanand Saraswatiji. of India’s largest interfaith, yoga and spiritual institutions. Parmarth Niketan Ashram Parmarth Niketan Ashram offers comfort, inspiration literally means an “Abode and upliftment for your body, Dedicated to the Welfare of All” mind and spirit as well as a deeper and is a true spiritual haven, lying connection with the Divine. As you on the holy banks of Mother Ganga, in the experience the serenity of the Ashram lap of the lush green . To learn more: www.parmarth.org

10 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 11 Blessings Welcome Message H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, President and Spiritual Head of Parmarth Niketan Director of International Yoga Festival

Dear Divine Souls, I was so glad to welcome you all to the holy banks of Mother Ganga, to the lap of the sacred Himalayas, to this land which is the birthplace of yoga. Jai Gange! It is not a coincidence that you were here in such a holy place. You are truly the chosen ones to be here, to be able to imbibe the ancient and It wa such a great joy and blessing to welcome you all to the holy timeless nectar of yoga. The International Yoga Festival is not only a banks of the Mother Ganga river, to the lap of the Himalayas, to the festival where people learn yoga; rather, the festival itself is yoga – a birthplace of yoga, a place where for thousands of years saints, sages divine union of the east and west, the north and south. On the banks and rishis have performed their meditation, their yoga and attained of Mother Ganga, people of every country, every culture, every color enlightenment. It was a great honour and joy to have been organizing and every creed are coming together as one family, connecting to the Divine within themselves and to the Divine within others. It is a time of this festival for so many years and to watch it grow and blossom, uniting not only one’s hands to one’s legs, but a time of uniting oneself bringing together more and more of the global yoga family. to the Divine, to the Divine that exists in every single one of you. Yoga The International Yoga Festival is a beautiful time of seeing the world is not only for health of the body; rather it also brings health, balance and stability to the mind, heart and your entire being. come together in the name of yoga, or union. We have a union of countries, cultures, colors and creeds, a union of different lineages of Know that you have come home, here at Parmarth Niketan. This is your yoga, a union of saints, yogacharyas and seekers. Himalayan home. Everything that your soul needs is here in abundance: serenity, inspiration and the divine touch. Come, sit by the banks of Sadhviji is a graduate of Stanford University As our world International Yoga Festival family gathered together, we Mother Ganga, absorb the divine energy of saints, sages and rishis who and has a PhD in psychology. She has lived united with our inner selves, with the Divine and with Pujya Swamiji is President of Parmarth have meditated and performed yoga here for centuries. Be touched at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, India, for the Divine embodied in and reflected by ourselves and each other. Niketan, the largest ashram in Rishikesh and transformed by the divine, sacred energy of this holy place. more than 20 years, where she teaches and one of the largest spiritual institutions Surrender, surrender your grudges, pains, difficulties and obstacles into meditation, gives spiritual discourses, provides During this transformative and sacred week, we learned , in India. He is a world renowned spiritual the flowing waters of Mother Ganga. Let go, and let Ganga wash away counseling and oversees myriad charitable and , meditation, philosophy and so much more from world leader, visionary and divine guide. He is the barrier between you and the peace, joy and light your life is meant humanitarian projects, including directing the renowned yogacharayas. We delved into , ashtanga yoga, the Founder of Ganga Action Parivar, India to embody. annual International Yoga Festival. , , so many other forms of yoga and also Heritage Research Foundation (IHRF), and of course the triveni sangam of bhakti yoga (devotion), gyan yoga Divine Shakti Foundation, and Co-Founder I always say, “Come to nature, be with nature, and change your nature.’ She was officially ordained into the order of of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, Let your soul and spirit reach the height of the Himalayas in whose lap Sanyas (monastic vows) by her guru H.H. Pujya (wisdom) and karma yoga (taking yoga off the mat and into service of organizations working for education, you are sitting. Let your joys, sorrows, attachments flow like the water Swami Chidanand Saraswati in the year 2000. the world). healthcare, women’s empowerment, in the . Become like the sunrise which brings light and warmth disaster relief, environmental protection, each day and a new day to all – with no discrimination, no vacation, no She is Secretary-General of the Global During the week you were here, you imbibed not only the teachings water, sanitation and hygiene (see back hesitation, and no expectation. Interfaith WASH Alliance, an international but also the divine touch and transformation of this sacred place. You cover for details). Pujya Swamiji has interfaith organization dedicated to bringing let the waters of Mother Ganga wash over you, and let the blessed I extend great thanks to all our dedicated teachers who traveled received innumerable awards, for example clean water, sanitation and hygiene to all, and atmosphere transform your whole being, filling you with joy, love, peace from every corner of the globe to come and offer their experience, the Mahatma Gandhi Humanitarian Award the President of the Divine Shakti Foundation, and the true union or “yoga” of body, mind and spirit. enthusiasm and expertise to the Festival. I also offer great appreciation and the “Surya Ratna” (Jewel of the Sun a foundation dedicated to bringing education and gratitude for the commitment and dedication of the Government Award). His religion is Unity, and he is a and empowerment to women and children With love and peace from the holy banks of Mother Ganga, of India led by our visionary Yogi Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji frequent leader at international interfaith (see back for more details). She has also been for their great dedication to the propagation of the science and art of conferences and summits such as the UN, a featured speaker at the United Nations, yoga. Parliament of World Religions and other World Economic Forum, Parliament of In His seva, World Religions, etc. He travels the world, May God bless you all with the continued awareness of the Divine international conferences and summits. bringing people of every religion and within you and continued connection to the Divine Source. culture closer to the Divine. To learn more about Sadhviji, please visit: With love and blessings always, Sadhviji.org Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati To learn more please visit: @SadhviBhagawatiSaraswati PujyaSwamiji.org @PujyaSwamiji @SadhviBhagawati Swami Chidanand Saraswati www.youtube.com/ParmarthNiketan youtube.com/ParmarthNiketan 12 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 13 IYF 2018

YF has taken place in Rishikesh been hosting this event, since Isince 1989, first organized 1999. In this time, the IYF has by the Government of Uttar grown to international acclaim Pradesh, and then by the and continues to increase in Government of attendance yearly. since 2001. Parmarth Niketan has

ClickClick HereHere to to watch watch the the IYF gorgeousgorgeous video! video! NEARLY 200 CLASSES • OVER 2000 MORE THAN 80 PARTICIPANTS More than PRESENTERS RISHIKESH 60 diverse class THE YOGA CAPITAL From 100 offerings From more than OF THE WORLD countries 20 countries On the Holy banks of Mother Ganga AT PARMARTH NIKETAN In the Lap of The Himalayas OFFERING YOGIS FROM 100 NATIONS THE TEACHING, TOUCH & TRANSFORMATION OF YOGA •

14 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 15 100 Countries Participate in the International Yoga Festival 2018

16 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 17 18 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 19 Registration Welcome Home. Welcome All.

record number of partici- at their Himalayan home, on the pants arrived to Parmarth banks of Mother Ganga, with A Niketan (Rishikesh) for the yoga enthusiasts and lovers from International Yoga Festival 2018. every region of the world. Smiles, Expecting over 2000 participants laughter and conversations of from around the world this year, the incredible yoga festival offer- the beautiful and green grounds ings and experiences filled the of one of Rishikesh’s largest Ash- air. Registration was handled by rams was hustling and bustling. a dedicated and diverse team of Many participants and teachers volunteers, who also came in from were returning back and shared around the world to serve during that year-round they look forward the Yoga Festival. to this time in which they can be

“Yoga is not only what we do but it is truly who we are. The saints whom we are honouring today, their lives reflected this truth.” - Pujya Swamiji - “There are so many world-class yoga studios across the world but there is no place like the banks of Mother Ganga, no place like Rishikesh, and no place like at the feet of our Yoga Masters and Revered Saints.” - Sadhvi Bhagawatiji -

20 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 21 The first day of the festival saw a with Tilak Vishvas. beautiful tapestry of participants representing the world’s faiths, na- The later afternoon classes includ- tions, cultures, races and regions ed Kundalini Yoga classes with as Argentinians, Afghans, Israelites, Tommy Rosen and Kia Miller of Cal- Iranians, Japanese, Kenyans, Ital- ifornia, with Yujia of Chi- ians, Americans, Yemenis and peo- na, Lila Yoga with Eric Kaufman of ple from numerous other nations Pennslyvania, USA, Yogi Yoga with formed bonds of togetherness un- Mohan Bhandari, originally of Rishi- der the common flag of yoga. kesh and now of China, as well as a beginner’s introduction class to The first day of the International meditation and asana with Katie B Yoga Festival at Parmarth Niketan Happy of . On the Sacred began at 4:00 am with Kundalini Sound Stage, Cheryl Friedman of Sadhana led by Gurushabd Singh USA led a session on “Vocal Bliss: Khalsa from California, USA, fol- Finding Your Soul Voice.” lowed by pre-breakfast classes including: Vinyasa Yoga with Aki- After the afternoon classes, we had ra Watamoto of Japan, Vinyasa a special advance Holi Celebration Strength with Krishnamurthy Mo- with Eco-Friendly colors along the han Raj of China, and Kundalini banks of Ganga, filled with music Yoga with Gloria Latham of Canada. and dancing. The full celebration will be tomorrow but the partici- After breakfast, the morning in- pants had a special “preview” of tense asana classes took place with Holi today, followed the sacred Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa, founder of Ganga Aarti, followed by the burn- Golden Bridge Yoga in California, ing of the Holika Effigy. USA teaching Kundalini yoga, Deb- orah Langely of Australia teaching During Ganga aarti, Sadhvi Bhaga- Lotus Flow Vinyasa, H.S. Arun of watiji explained to all the partici- Bangalore, teaching , pants about the deeper meaning as well as Mert Guler of Turkey lead- of Holi and the story of the devo- ing a beautiful Sufi Meditation. Jo- tee Prahlad with what Holika rep- anna Faso of USA taught a Sanskrit resents. The participants who come Mantra Workshop focusing on the from every religion and culture were Maha Mrtyunjaya mantra. so touched to learn the deep and universal significance of this holiday At 11am, the Spiritual Discourse Se- and they joined together in lighting ries commenced with a highly-mo- the Holika effigy, expressing their tivational address by HH Pujya Sri enthusiasm to play Holi with colors Shankaracharya Swami Divyanand more tomorrow. Teerthji and renowned biologist Dr. Bruce Lipton, who uplifted and After dinner, participants were inspired the audience with a talks thrilled to have the special on the influence of our thoughts occasion of a concert by world on our cells and the importance of famous percussionist Sivamani spiritual practice. – a true ecstatic experience of drums, music and rhythm, soul, After enjoying lunch in the sunshine, and dance -- alongside renowned highlights of the afternoon included violinist and composer . a talk on the role of yoga to make Sivamani’s style is deeply profound Day 1 a healthy world by Dr. Ishwar and mysterious at one moment; Basavaraddi, a Bhakti Yoga session tantalizing and exuberant at the Union of Yoga Begins with Daphne Tse of USA, a Cosmic next. However, augmenting the On the holy banks of Mother Ganga Intelligence Plus Meditation with brute power, are his rhythmic style Maa Gyaan Suveera, Maharishi and harmony, which surrounds the In the Lap of the Himalayas Meditation with Laura Plumb of discerning listener with warmth, joy California, and Raga Sound Healing and bliss.

22 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 23 Click Here to See More

Click here to watch!

24 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 25 Day 2 Holi Played with Yogis from 100 Nations & Renowned Percussionist Sivamani on Second Day of International Yoga Festival

The colours of Parmarth may become green festivals. Niketan Ashram became It is also a beautiful example brighter as participants of the deep and universal from 100 nations enjoyed meaning of Indian holidays. a special Holi celebration They teach us how to make wiht Pujya Swamiji, Sadhvi our holidays into holy days!” Bhagawatiji, and internation- ally-renowned percussionist, Said Sadhvi Bhagawatiji, “To- Sivamani. day’s beautiful celebrations brought the world together The festivities used organic in song, dance, joy and co- colours in order to send a lours. We celebrated Holi message to the world that because we want everyone celebration and environmen- to return to their 100 nations tal conservation should go with their hearts coloured in hand-in-hand. the colour of yoga, the co- lour of union, the colour of Said Pujya Swamiji, “To- oneness and peace. The co- day, people from across the lours on our faces will wash world enjoyed the colours of right off, but the colour on Holi in a way that will protect our hearts is what everyone our environment and our will take home with them health. Let this serve as an and be true ambassadors of example for everyone, ev- yoga, of peace and of envi- erywhere, so that all festivals ronmental protection.”

Click here to watch the Holi Celebrations!

26 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 27 Before the Holi Celebrations, par- and lunch, divine talks and med- Yoga class, Francesca Cassia of It- ticipants in the second day of the itations were led, including a talk aly led Odaka Yoga, Ana Forrest International Yoga Festival took on karma and dharma with Laura & Jose Calarco of Australia led part in early morning classes which Plumb of California, Aura Healing , Katie Fisher of USA included a 4am Morning Sadhana with Maa Gyaan Suveera, Yoga led a class on Bio-Acoustic Med- class with Sukhmandir Singh of Nidra with Sadhvi Abha Saraswa- icine with Tuning Forks, Mudra USA, followed by classes in Bhak- ti, Inner Yoga Therapy through and Marma, and Yuva Dayalan of Click Here ti Yoga with Daphne Tse of Tex- Chakras with Satya Kalra, and Hong Kong led a class in Yuvaa as and Hawaii, Traditional Hatha Gong Healing with Sanj Hall. Yoga. to See More Yoga with Sadhvi Abha Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan, Pranayama There was also a special screen- During the Divine Ganga Aarti with H.S. Arun of Bangalore, Sufi ing of the film “PGS – Intuition is in the evening, IYF Yogacharya Meditation with Mert Guler of Tur- Your Personal Guidance System” Laura Plumb’s new book “Ayurve- key, and Forrest Yoga with Ana by Australian producer/director dic Cooking for Beginners” was Forrest & Jose Calarco of Aus- Bill Bennett, a 90-minute mov- launched and blessed by Pujya tralia. There was also a Dhrupad ie detailing one man’s search for Swamiji. Laura is dedicated in Morning Raga Concert with Astha a voice that saved his life. The the field of Mind-Body Medicine. and Pradeep Chopra on the spe- search took Bill Bennett to some She is founder of Ganga Yoga, in cial Sacred Sound Stage. of the most remote and sacred which she was inspired by Pujya places on the planet, to talk to Swamiji to develop a new form of Following breakfast, classes in holy men and mystics, including yoga that will connect people all asana continued with Jivamuk- IYF’s Founder Pujya Swami Chi- over the world to Ganga. ti Yoga with Jules Febre of New danand Saraswatiji and IYF Direc- York, Iyengar Yoga with H.S. Arun, tor Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, Following the divine Ganga Aarti Kundalini Yoga with Kia Miller of sadhus and saints, research scien- and dinner, Daphne Tse of Texas the UK, Sattva Yoga with Anand tists and quantum physicists and and Hawaii, USA led sacred chant- Mehrotra, and a special joint class psychiatrists. The film has already ing and music with guest musi- of Mantra Vinyasa with Akira Wat- opened to sold out audiences in cians Setsuo Miyashita, Gumi, amoto of Japan and Anandra several cities across the world in- Keigo Tanaka, Ryohei Kishimoto, George of USA. Cheryl Friedman cluding Hollywood. and Momoko Nagano. All hailing of USA led a Sanskrit Mantra from Japan, all the musicians have Workshop, focusing on the Savitri In the afternoon sessions, Mert extensively studied classical Indi- Gayatri mantra. Guler of Turkey led a meditation an music, including mantra and on Rumi and Love, Erica Kaufman instruments like the santoor. Following the Holi celebrations of USA led an introduction to Lila Click Here to See More 28 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 29 The International Yoga Festival was and Hon’ble MLA Yamkeshwar, Smt making Parmarth Niketan’s Interna- officially inaugurated on the third Ritu Khanduri, as well as the partic- tional Yoga Festival a tremendous day by the Hon’ble Vice President ipation of numerous renowned faith draw for individuals from around the of India, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu at a leaders, dignitaries and yogacharyas world. ceremony that included congratula- from nearly 20 countries across the tory statements from Hon’ble Gov- world. The official inauguration of the event Day 3 ernor of Uttarakhand, Shri KK Paul; saw a beautiful and colorful tapes- Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttara- The inauguration was presided over try of participants representing the khand, Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat; by H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand world’s faiths, nations, cultures, rac- Inauguration by the Hands of Hon’ble Union Minister of Tour- Saraswatiji, President of Parmarth es and regions as Germans, South ism, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam, Niketan, and Sadhvi Bhagawati Africans, Turkish, Swiss, Guyanese, Hon’ble Minister of AYUSH, Gov- Saraswatiji, Director of International Kyrgyzstani, Mauritians, Romanians, ernment of Uttarakhand, Shri Harak Yoga Festival. Indians, and people from numerous Hon’ble Vice President of India Singh Rawat and Hon’ble Minister other nations formed bonds of to- of Higher Education, Government of Yoga, once an art restricted only to getherness under the common flag People from 100 Nations, Vice President, Governor, CM, Uttarakhand, Shri Dhan Singh Rawat, the sages of the high Himalayas, is of yoga, on the banks of the sacred Dignitaries and Saints Converge for Inauguration of Parmarth Hon’ble Speaker of Legislative As- now practiced by some 300 million River Ganga, in the World Capital of sembly, Shri Prem Chand Agarwal people practice yoga worldwide, Yoga. Niketan’s Renowned International Yoga Festival

30 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 31 HE Vice President Shri M Venkaiah Naidu stated, “I heartily Click Here congratulate Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, the Founder of the International Yoga Festival (IYF) at Parmarth Niketan, and to See More Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, the Director of IYF, for creating such a beautiful festival for the world to take part in and celebrate the true essence of yoga and for them to celebrate the diversity whilst stay rooted in the unity, in line with the tradition of our sacred land. I am so glad to learn how this festival has grown and blossomed over the last nearly twenty years at Parmarth Niketan. I am also glad to see the message being propagated here that we have to preserve nature and our culture to pave the way towards our collective future.”

Said HE Governor Dr. Said HH Pujya Swami Chi- Krishna Kant Paul of danand Saraswatiji, Presi- Uttarakhand, “IYF is the dent of Parmarth Niketan brainchild of Pujya Swami and Founder of its Interna- Chidanand Saraswatiji. This tional Yoga Festival, “To- festival has not only been day is truly a historical day able to convey the essence -- people from 94 countries of yoga but it has also been and our Hon’ble Vice Presi- able to motivate a large dent together on the banks number of people not only in of Ganga! Yoga is an amazing India but also abroad to turn gift to humanity. As sun and towards Yoga. The pres- moon are for all, so yoga is ence of a large of number for all. Yoga shows us the international delegates here way from focusing on Wifi to today and year after year is a focusing on Why I? Why I am symbol of the power of yoga on this Earth? Yoga is the way and the success of the IYF at to a lifelong 3H programme Parmarth Niketan.” -- Health, Happiness and Harmony. So, love yoga, live yoga and be yoga.”

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Hon’ble Tourism Minister Uttarakhand, Shri Triven- Shri K Alphons said, “There dra Singh Rawatji said, is genocide happening in “I warmly welcome you to parts of the world, there is Devbhoomi, Uttarakhand violence amongst women and I express my appreci- and children as well as the ation to Pujya Swamiji for environment but amongst bringing people from 94 all this - there is one thing nations to be touched and uniting the world and that is transformed by this sacred yoga. That is our great legacy land. I am certain that to the world.” “Yoga is not a religion. It is a culture and a way of life. It is during their time they will the key to how our ancient civilization has stood the test of learn how to live with great- time. Yoga unites our thoughts, words and actions, our mind, er peace, happiness and contentment in their lives. body and speech. It facilitates greater unity in our society, Today, when the world is amongst our generations and amidst our nations.” restless and stressed, losing - HE Vice President Shri M Venkaiah Naidu - their peace, in the face of this darkness, yoga is the light for peace and happi- ness. Yoga is true wealth of our nation.” 32 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 33 Said Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, Director, International Yoga Fes- tival and President, Divine Shakti Foundation, “When we look around the world today, we see violence, crime, war, poverty, environmental destruction. Yoga is our magic wand. If yoga, in its fullness of eight limbs as given by Sage Patanjali were truly practiced and embodied by all, the problems of our world would dissi- pate and even disappear. The time is now. We are the ones. Yoga is the answer.”

Prior to the rousing speeches, a special ceremony was held in which the Yogacharyas and Country Ambassadors were given a “Tree of Yoga”, followed by a divine Water Blessing Ceremony. After Said Said Said this, the Yogis from across the world-renowned American Yoga Teach- American Ayurvedic world took part in a Yoga in Kundalini Yoga Teacher and er, founder of Recovery 2.0, Practitioner, Yoga Teacher Founder of Golden Bridge a new system of using yoga and co-founder of Deep Action Pledge, raising their Yoga LA, Gurmukh Kaur: to help people recover from Yoga, Laura Plumb, “Here hands in unity to help make “I have been coming to the addictions, and renowned at Parmarth Niketan, we are the planet Clean, Green & International Yoga Festival Author, Tommy Rosen, “The supported by the mountains, Serene for all beings. at Parmarth Niketan since source of the International by the river and by the saints. its inception. It’s been nearly Yoga Festival’s success is Pu- As the International Yoga twenty years of our time jya Swami Chidanand Saras- Festival grows, the need for together. I go around the watiji, who constantly ema- it grows. A week from now, world, to numerous festivals, nates love, just like the River as you return to 100 nations, but this one is very special. Ganga. He is a living example take what you have learned One that I know I person- of what sadhana can do. Let and shower the world with ally get a lot of energy and His example, and the wisdom love.” healing from, which helps learned at the International Click here to watch the me share the same with my Yoga Festival draw all from students.” darkness to light and from inspiring speeches fear to love.”

34 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 35 “Our scriptures remind us, ‘Let all the noble thoughts come from all directions,’ and ‘The Truth is One, but the sages call it by different names.” - Pujya Swamiji -

On the third day, the first class of yoga taught by four different Krishnamacharya-Style Yoga with began at 4:00 am with Kundalini yogacharyas. These sessions Laura Plumb of USA, Yogi Yoga Sadhana, by American Sikh, included: Meditation with Gurmukh with Mohan Bhandari of China, Gurushabd Singh of New Mexico, Kaur Khalsa of California, Kundalini with Jules Febre United States. At 6:30 am, festival Yoga with Kia Miller of Venice, of New York, Kundalini Yoga offerings included: Iyengar California, Forrest Yoga with Ana with Tommy Rosen of California, Yoga with H.S. Arun, Ashtanga Forrest & Jose Calarco of USA and Somatic Yoga with Brian Siddharth Vinyasa Yoga with Bharath Shetty, Australia, and Sattva Yoga with Ingle of Ireland, and chanting with Traditional Hatha Yoga with Sadhvi Anand Mehrotra of Rishikesh. Anandra George. Abha Saraswati, Vinyasa Yoga with Krishnamurthy Mohan Raj of China, After lunch, highlights included In the evening, participants were and T’ai Chi with Sandeep Desai. a talk on the Yoga of Eating with treated to a very unique and famous dietician to the stars Rujuta special play about Mahatma As the sun rose over the River Diwakar of Mumbai, Gandhiji’s life by actor João Ganga, a special meditation was with Sadhvi Abha Saraswatiji of Signorelli of Brazil, followed by held on the river’s serene banks Parmarth Niketan, Daoist Yoga Sufi Meditation and ecstatic with soothing and melodious with Yujia of China, & Whirling Dance led by Mert mantras chanted by Anandra Bhakti Workshop with Kirtaniyas, Güler of Turkey. Including Sufi George of Hawaii, USA. and a Guided Chakra Balancing meditation and whirling dancing in class with Maa Gyaan Suveera the International Yoga Festival is a After a beautiful breakfast in the of Rishikesh. Afternoon session great example of the openness and gardens, a special session was held highlights included Vinyasa Yoga universality of Indian culture. that included a 2-hour program with Akira Watamoto of Japan, Click Here to See More 36 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 37 Day 4 Yogis From Across the World Join Together in Prayer & Meditation

Click here to listen to the meditation

he fourth day of IYF opened Bruce Lipton on the effects of Yoga ed a yoga class on Hip and Shoulder with yogis from around the on our cells and by Pujya Swami Para- Opening by Mohan Bhandari of Chi- world meditating together madvaitiji on the Yoga of Love. na, originally from Rishikesh, and Ton the banks of Mother Ganga. In Kundalini Yoga with Tommy Rosen of a beautiful program, Pujya Swami- Class offerings after the spiritual lec- USA. Anand Mehrotra taught Sattva ji, Pujya M.M. Swami Asanganand ture included Kundalini Yoga with Yoga, Roberto Milletti of Italy taught Saraswatiji, Sadhvi Abha Saraswatiji, world-famous Kundalini yoga teach- Odaka Yoga, and Saul David Raye Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati and Gur- er Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa of USA, of USA led a class on unlocking our mukh Kaur led a special two-hour ex- taught on the Yoga Ghat. The other Prana Shakti. Joanna Faso led Mantra perience of chanting and meditation. asana intense classes included a class Yoga for Mental Health on IYF’s Sa- Sadhvi Bhagawatiji shared also the focused on -Shakti Power with cred Sound Stage. story of the Goddess Ganga coming Yogrishi Vishvketu of Rishikesh, Zen onto earth and the meaning for us in Yoga with Hikaru Hashimoto of Ja- Following Ganga Aarti and dinner, our lives today: “Liberation is not just pan, Devotional Yoga with Yoshi participants enjoyed ecstatic kirtan that which happens after we die. It is Aono of USA, and Vinyasa with Katie with the musical group Kirtaniyas. not the body which binds and chains B Happy of USA. The Kirtaniyas are well-known for us. It’s the way we identify with the their fusion of traditional Indian style body and mind. Let the Mother God- After lunch in the garden, spiritual vocal music with multi-instruments. dess Ganga flow through you, freeing discourses included Inbound Yoga Bhakti yoga, or devotional singing you and bringing you liberation while with Srila B.A. Paramadvaiti Swamiji and chanting of kirtan. The path of IN the body.” of South America, Epigentics with Dr. devotion is one that is not common Andrea Paige of Bali, Yoga of Dance to people in the West the way it is in Following the meditation and break- & Soul with Daphne Tse, and India, and so Parmarth Niketan has fast in the gardens, the Spiritual Healing Sound Bath with Katie Fisher. been committed to sharing and offer- Lecture Series was blessed with a ing that special and unique form of discourse by renowned scientist Dr. The late afternoon classes includ- yoga with the participants.

38 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 39 Click Here to See More 40 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 41 Yogacharyas and participants took nimity, harmony, love and peace to future of Yoga.” part in a special meditation at Ma- our lives. Meditation gives you the harishi Mahesh Yogiji’s Ashram, just inner connection. In the age of inter- Sri Prem Babaji said, “This moment steps away from Parmarth Niketan. net, we also more than ever need our requires for the union and reunion inner net to stay grounded and bal- of the human family. It is coming to- 2018 marks the 50th anniversary anced. Internet grants us the fastest gether with the people first of people of the time when the world-famous speed but our inner net grants us the who understand the importance of band The Beatles stayed at Mahari- direction.” transformation, and who are able to shiji’s ashram in Rishikesh, where put their gifts and talents together they wrote nearly fifty songs that Earlier in the day, the spiritual lec- for such transformation. The princi- soon became some of their biggest tures series was graced today by Sri ples of yoga, the niyamas and yamas, hits. On this anniversary, many cel- Prem Babaji, renowned leader from the 8 limbs are key to ending the cy- ebrations have been planned with the Brazil and founder of Awaken Love cle of violence in the world, violence devotees of Maharishiji to remember who spoke on the Yoga of Love, and toward ourselves and toward others, and celebrate His life and teachings. renowned scientist and environmen- and to tapping into the experience of tal activist Dr. Vandana Shiva speak- l ov e .” Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji ing on the Yoga of Action. led the participants from 94 countries In the evening, a very special Global by foot on a walking pilgrimage to Dr Vandana Shiva shared in her in- Music and Dance program brought Maharishiji ashram where there was spiring speech which got a standing together the cultures of the world. Click HERE to watch sacred chanting and divine medita- ovation at the end with yogis from Performances included Russian mu- tion. Honorable Minister of AYUSH around the world giving their thun- sician Denis Kucherov, traditional Click here to watch! Sadhviji and Bruce and Minister of Forests, Shri Harak derous applause to her inspiring Bharatanatyam and Gujarati folk Lipton’s talk! Singh Rawatji joined the special thoughts, “There is a simple way of dance with Bharat Barai of Gujarat, event. living and that simplicity is the Yoga and dance and song showcases from of the Earth, Yoga of love and the around the world, ranging from the Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Yoga of action. Each time you think UK to Mongolia and more. The event said, “Maharishi always emphasized the problems are so big and I am too was a true celebration of the spirit of the power and vital importance of small, I take inspiration from the seed the International Yoga Festival, which meditation. I often share meditation which is so small but changes every- this year brought together over 2000 is the best medication for all agita- thing. Each of us is a seed for anoth- participants from 100 nations around tion. Today, the world needs more er future. A future of love, oneness, the world. Day 5 meditation. Meditation brings equa- healing and interconnectedness- a Yogis Mark 50th Anniversary of The Beatles in India with Special Meditation at Click here to listen Maharishi Mahesh Yogiji’s Ashram to the meditation

42 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 43 On the fifth day of International Yoga Ganga. Yogrishi Vishvketu of Rishikesh travel the world teaching Bharatanatyam. Festival, 4am Kundalini sadhana was led led a Holistic Yogic Journey through the by Gurushabd Singh, an American Sikh Five Khoshas. After lunch in the garden of Parmarth, Click Here and disciple of Yogi Bhajan. Other ear- special talks took place throughout the ly morning classes included Traditional Post-breakfast, morning asana classes IYF. Dr. Vandana Shiva gave an inspir- to See More Hatha Yoga with Sadhvi Abha Saraswati continued with Tantra Yoga with Saul ing talk on the yoga of action to protect of Parmarth Niketan, Odaka Yoga with David Raye of the UK, Shakti Yoga with our future, and Shubhvilas Das gave a Roberto Milletti of Italy, MetaFlow with Laura Plumb of California, Jivamukti divine talk on the inner meaning of the Bhavini Kalan of South Africa, and Jap- Yoga with Jules Febre of New York, and Hanuman Chalisa. Dr. Andrea Paige of anese Traditional Mantra with Japanese a Sanskrit Mantra Workshop focusing on Bali gave a talk on fasting, Tommy Rosen musicians Setsuo Miyashita, Gumi, Keigo the mantra Asato Ma with Joanna Faso. A of California spoke on recovering from Tanaka, and Momoko Nagano. class entitled Uncovering the Mystery of addiction through yoga, and Dr. Anjana the Psoas was taught by Francesca Cassia. Bhagat spoke on aromatherapy to balance Mohan Bhandari, a yogacharya from Ri- energy centers. Satya Hinduja created an shikesh who is now living in China, taught A special Indian Classical Dance work- Alchemic Sound Experience for yoga par- Yogi Yoga, and Radhika Nagrath led Sun- shop was also taught by Bharat Barai of ticipants at the Sacred Sound Stage. rise Sun Salutations along the banks of Gujarat and Akshay Patel of Nityavali, who

Click Here to See More “There is a simple way of living and that simplicity is the Yoga of the Earth, Yoga of love and the Yoga of action. Each time you think the problems are so big and I am too small, I take inspiration from the seed which is so small but changes everything. Each of us is a seed for another future. A future of love, oneness, healing and interconnectedness - a future of Yoga.” - Dr. Vandana Shiva -

44 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 45 “Science is great if the subject is something within the purview of science’s tools. But if the subject is beyond these tools, science does not have the answer, only spirituality does...In spirituality, the Truth is eternal, universal and not Day 6 dependent on time, place or tools.” - Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati - Science & Spirituality Come Together at International Yoga Festival “We are not victims of our genes. We are victims only of our mental programming. If we can free ourselves from the negative, fear based, sabotaging mental programming through yoga and meditation, we can create heaven on earth in our own lives and every day can be a honeymoon. “ - Dr. Bruce Lipton -

On the sixth day of International Yoga Prayer, Poetry & Shamanism, bringing A special talk was held with renowned Festival, Parmarth Niketan Ashram was many new avenues of healing for mod- American motivational author and awash today in a sea of colour and a ern yogis. speaker Brandon Bays, who spoke about Click here to listen flood of languages as people from 100 what she refers to as “The Journey.” The countries united to form an enormous As the run rose over the banks of the powerful teachings of The Journey were to the lecture peace symbol in the back yoga garden River Ganga, participants were en- born from Brandon’s own direct expe- and pledged to be torchbearers of peace. chanted by soothing, melodious mantra rience of healing from a large tumor in chanting by Anandra George of Hawaii, just 6 ½ weeks – without drugs or sur- The spiritual lecture series was a con- USA. gery. The Journey allows us to get to versation on “Science Meets Spirituality the root cause of our limitations and the - The Power of Yoga to Transform Your Later in the morning, world-famous shut downs that prevent us from living Cells to Your Self” with Sadhvi Bhaga- Kundalini Yoga teacher Gurmukh Kaur life to the full – and that can even make wati Saraswati and Bruce Lipton Ph.D., of USA led Kundalini Yoga, Tommy us ill, bringing healing and transforma- an internationally renowned scientist Rosen of USA led a separate Kundali- tion at a cellular level. and best-selling author. The conversa- ni Yoga class, Brian Siddharth Ingle of tion bridged science and spirituality to Ireland taught Somatic Yoga, and Jules In the later afternoon, intense asana help everyone understand that we are Febre led Pranayama and Meditation. classes included Yuvaa Yoga with Yuva not victims of our genes, our physical Swami Uttamananda led the Sanskrit Dayalan, beginner level for health and bodies or our situations. Mantra Workshop, which focused on longevity with Simon Borg-Olivier of the inner meaning of Aum and Om Australia, Lotus Flow Vinyasa with The morning, 4am Kundalini sadhana Namah Shivaya. Anand Mehrotra led a Deborah Langely of Australia/New was led by Gurushabd Singh of USA, class in Sattva Yoga. York, and a musical workshop entitled followed by other early morning class- “The Rhythm of Life” with Mae- es including Kundalini Yoga with Kia Following lunch, Dr. Anjana Bhagat stro Pankaj Suhash. Yogi Amandeep Miller of USA, Vinyasa with Katie B led an introductory chakra meditation Singh of Singapore taught a Kundalini Happy of USA, and Sukshma Yoga with with essential oils, Daphne Tse of USA Yoga class. Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswa- Nandini Tripathi of Parmarth Niketan. led chanting for the soul, Swamini Ad- tiji led a beautiful satsang followed by a Saul David Raye of the UK led a class ityananda Saraswati of Parmarth Ni- meditation entitled “Ganga Flow Medi- focused on Hridaya Shakti, and Dayna ketan taught a class on spiritual dream tation: Let Go, Expand, and Connect in Seraye of USA led a class focused on the boarding to chart our course for a divine the Presence of Truth.” Heart of Hanuman. Ana Forrest of USA tomorrow, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasenaji and Jose Calarco of Australia led Forrest led a Buddhist meditation, and Katie After Divine Ganga Aarti, the yogis Yoga, a style of Yoga which brings to- Fisher of USA led a chanting session were treated with an exuberant cultural gether Music, Philosophy, First Peoples focusing on vibrational frequencies for song, dance and theatre performance by (native people of USA, Australia, etc.), health. the Parmarth Rishikumars.

46 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 47 “The very first yama given by Patanjali is ahimsa, non-violence. To be true yogis, not just acrobats or exercisers, you must begin with a foundation of ahimsa.” - Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati -

Click to here to watch!

Click Here 48to | International See More Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 49 On the seventh day of International Yoga Festival, 4am Kund- B.A. Paramadvaitiji, who spoke about environmental-focused alini sadhana was led by Gurushabd Singh of USA, followed by yoga. Pujya Mooji, who has attended the IYF for the last several other early morning classes including “Awaken the Bliss Body” years, sent a video message to the participants, allowing them to with Dayna Seraye of USA, Lila Yoga with Erica Kaufman of still imbibe his words and feel his presence in the festival. USA, Yuvaa Yoga with Yuva Dayalan, Ashtanga Yoga with Sand- eep Desai, & Pranayama with Yogiraj Vishwapal After lunch, IYF participants were treated to a series of talks Jayant, and Nada Yoga with Setsuo Miyashita of Japan. and experiences, including Inner Yoga Therapy through Chakra Alignment with Satya Kalra of USA, Kirtan Chanting with After a light breakfast, yoga classes continued with Kia Miller of Adam Bauer of USA, and Alchemic Sonic Environment with Sa- USA leading Kundalini Yoga, Sadhvi Abha Saraswati of Parm- tya Hinduja. Renowned scientist Dr. Bruce Lipton gave a special arth Niketan leading Traditional Hatha Yoga, and Ana Forrest talk entitled “The Honeymoon Effect: The Science of Creating of USA and Jose Calarco of Australia leading Forrest Yoga. Saul Heaven on Earth.” David Raye of UK led a sacred sound healing experience focus- ing on the power of Om, and Cheryl Friedman of USA led the The last session of the 2018 IYF took place in the later afternoon, Sanskrit mantra workshop, focusing on the mantra “Lokah Sa- which included Osho Meditation with Chandanni Miglino of Day 7 mastah Sukhino Bhavantu.” Mert Guler of Turkey led a medita- California, Sattva Yoga with Anand Mehrotra, and Kirtan 101 tion on Rumi and love. with Harinam Anand. Jivamukti Yoga was led by Jules Febre, International Yoga Festival Concludes an internationally acclaimed Advanced Certified Jivamukti Yoga Following the morning’s classes, the yogis were blessed in the Teacher from New York, USA. Yoshi Aono of Colorado, USA with Over 2000 Participants From Spiritual Lecture series with the presence of Ven. Bhikkhu Sang- led a class entitled “From Vision to Devotion to Liberation: 100 Countries Around the World hasenaji, who spoke on Buddhist yogic philosophy, and Srila Awakened Entrepreneurship in the Western Paradigm.”

50 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 51 Click Here to See More

52 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 53 Concluding Ceremony Pujya Swami Ramdevji, Pujya Swamiji, Pujya Prem Babaji, Smt. Hansa Yogendra & Other Eminent Dignitaries Conclude the Week-Long IYF IYF at Parmarth Niketan honoured and enlisted in the offical The 29th annual International Yoga Fes- Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, Director World Record Book for Biggest International Yoga Festival, tival concluded, having been attended of International Yoga Festival, with the hosting record number of hours of Yoga classes from world-class by more than 2000 people, who came official certificate for the World Record from 100 countries across the world for Biggest International Yoga Festival Yoga teachers practicing multiple styles of Yoga to take part in inspiring lectures and for hosting a record number of hours courses by over 80 revered saints, yo- of Yoga classes from world-class Yoga gacharyas, presenters and experts who teachers practicing multiple styles of taught nearly 200 offerings throughout Yoga, including Kundalini Yoga, Power the week. Vinyasa Yoga, Iyengar Yoga and Kriya Yoga. The participants go back to their coun- tries full of inspiration to be ambassa- The International Yoga Festival at Parm- dors of yoga, ambassadors of love, am- arth Niketan will be listed in the official bassadors of peace, and ambassadors World Record book and Pujya Swamiji of unity. New friendships were formed and Sadhvi Bhagawatiji were congratu- during the course of the IYF, in many lated by the officials from India and the cases between people who would never United Kingdom - Shri Virendra Sharma have met and were from countries who (Member of Parliament, England), Dr. are fighting each other. The Internation- Diwakar Sukul (Chairman, World Book al Yoga Festival was a true celebration of Records, London), and other interna- of yoga – which means “union” – as it tional dignitaries. brought the world together in the name of unity, togetherness, and peace. Sadhvi Bhagawatiji’s new book entitled “Satsang: In the Presence of Truth” and The concluding ceremony was led by a new translation into Chinese of Pujya Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji and Swamiji’s book “Peace” by yogacha- graced by Pujya Swami Ramdevji, Pujya rya Mohan Bhandari were officially Prem Babaji, Director of The Yoga Insti- launched and blessed by the present tute Smt. Hansa Yogendraji, Director of dignitaries. The Concluding Ceremony The Art of Living’s women and child wel- was followed by Divine Ganga Aarti. fare programmes and sister of Pujya Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Smt. Banumathi Nar- The evening concluded with a special, simhan, renowned Sufi singer Kailash memorable Sufi music concert on the Kher, and all of the divine yogacharyas banks of the Ganga by the world-re- of the IYF. nowned Sufi singer Kailash Kher. Kailash Kher, who is now known throughout the During the ceremony, The World Book world for his soulful voice and inspiring of Records, London (UK) presented Pu- songs, is a former Parmarth Niketan Ri- jya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji and shikumar (student).

54 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 55 “Through yoga, we can achieve anything. Through yoga we can achieve the Divine. All of you here are ambassadors of yoga…and nothing that a yogi does should be impure, we should live a life of purity and truth through yoga. You are not just a representative of yourself, but you are representatives of yoga around the world.” Click to here to - HH Swami Ramdev - watch the concluding ceremony

56 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 57 Sufi music by world-renowned KAILASH KHER & KAILASA Concludes the 29th Annual International Yoga Festival

Click to here to watch a clip of Kailash Kher’s performance!

58 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 59 The day after IYF’s official conclusion, Inter- Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, President of national Women’s Day was celebrated at the Divine Shakti Foundation. Parmarth Niketan with all the participants and yogacharyas, as well as a number of es- The celebration was concluded with Parm- teemed women leaders and dignitaries. arth Niketan’s world-renowned, divine Gan- ga Aarti on the banks of Mother Ganga. The celebration started at 7:00am with Shak- ti Yoga with Laura Plumb along the banks of A special “Asha Ki Kiran” workshop was also Ganga. Laura Plumb, based in California, held at Parmarth Niketan on the occasion USA, is an Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga of International Women’s Day. Smt. Rekha teacher dedicated to the field of Body-Mind Arya, Minister of Women and Child Wel- medicine. She is founder of Ganga Yoga, in fare, Government of Uttarakhand; Smt. Ritu which she was inspired by Pujya Swamiji to Khanduri, MLA Yamkeshwar; and Director develop a new form of yoga that will con- General Health, Dr. Archana Srivastava at- International nect people all over the world to Ma Ganga. tended Inauguration Ceremony. Following Shakti Yoga, a special Shakti Ha- During the ceremony, women who were van was led by Sadhvi Abha Saraswati and serving as role models within the communi- the Parmarth Rishikumars, Shakti Dance with ty were honoured. In addition, Asha work- Women’s Day Anuradha, and concluding with a divine ers (community-based health workers and Ganga Snaan with all participants. activists) were trained to bring awareness through this workshop for health in their Pujya Swami Ramdevji, Pujya Swamiji, In the evening, the International Women’s communities. Pujya Prem Babaji, Smt. Hansa Day celebration, in which awards were giv- en to women who are doing and leading Sadhvi Bhagwatiji said, “Girls must be enliv- Yogendra & Other Eminent excellent work in their communities. The ened and educated to bring the change in event was graced by Hon’ble Smt. Rekha the world. There should be no bias between Dignitaries Conclude the Week-Long Arya, Minister of Uttarakhand for Women’s a girl and a boy. Both are equal. We need to International Yoga Festival Empowerment and Child Welfare; Hon’ble understand women.” Smt Ritu Khanduri, MLA; Smt. Radhika Jha, Secretary of Power, Govt of Uttarakhand and Under the joint aegis of Divine Shakti Foun- Secretary to Hon’ble Chief Minister; Dr. Van- dation and CAN Foundation, Asha Workers dana Shiva, renowned environmental activ- of Uttarakhand were trained by Dr Sumi- ist and Founder of Navdanya; Smt. Hansa ta Prabhakar for bringing awareness about Jayadev, Director of ; and health and cancer.

60 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 61 Click Here to See More

62 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 63 Testimonials: Uplifting Connections

“The International Yoga Festival is a unique “The International Yoga Festival is my jour- experience not only for the students but ney home! It’s a place where I feel Ganga for the teachers. As teachers we are given cleanse me. The people I meet are rela- the opportunity to teach students from tionships I have for life. I am so grateful to over 100 different countries. It is a rich ex- journey from California every year for this perience to share what we love about this tradition that we honour and respect… a sacred event. Thank you Swamiji!” tradition that has no borders.” - Katie B Happy, Presenter - Gloria Latham, Presenter

“Stunning, magic, worlds best life transfor- mative experience.” “Connected to my heart like never be- -Francesca Salerno, Participant fore.” “The iyf is a gathering of union. Individuals - Jemina Cox, Participant from all over the world coming together for a shared experience of connection through yoga. It truly uplifting week.” “Coming back to the IYF always opens our - Annemarie Brown, Participant hearts and our souls. It makes us ponder about the miracle of life and the power of “The International Yoga Festival takes transforming our life into a living blessing. seriously the collective power for change Here on the banks of Mother Ganga we that contemporary yogis possess when they soak in the sacred source of our souls and come together. IYF does not just ride the we create, all together, a better world. wave but is integral in enhancing the mo- Inspired by the ever flowing, Ganga, hum- “International Yoga Festival is an mentum as yoga moves forward changing bled by the presence of so many Acharyas extraordinary global yoga gathering… the world for the better.” and our beloved Guruji we step into our bringing together holy saints and yogis - Jules Febre, Presenter journey to empowerment. Here you find: “Having taught all over the World, IYF is from around the world. It is a One of a opportunities to grow, a reason to stay; the most diverse, life-altering festival. The Kind experience that connects people of inspirational people, people to connect “Coming back to The IYF, always opens our energy of Rishikesh, the Ganga, and Parm- all walks of life and unites us all on the with who are dedicated, diverse, and hearts and our souls. It makes us ponder arth Niketan Ashram truly transforms peo- banks of Ma Ganga to experience the true multi-talented. We are reminded daily of about the miracle of life and the power of ple. It is a great joy to witness the incredi- meaning of yoga, service and pure love for who we are destined to be and inspired by transforming our life into a living blessing. ble shift in people’s lives when they come one another.” our Divine Guruji, Sadhvi and their amazing Here on the banks of Mother Ganga we to this event.” - Daphne Tse, Presenter vision.” soak in the sacred source of our souls and -Anand Mehrotra, Presenter we create, all together, a better world.” - Roberto Milletti, Presenter - Francesca Cassia, Presenter

64 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 65 Media Coverage Click Here to watch the IYF gorgeous video!

66 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 67 Tweets about IYF: The Festival Creates a Buzz

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68 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 69 Yoga off the Mat “Yoga is not just what you DO but it’s who you ARE. Hence, your Yoga must continue 24 hrs, especially when you get off the mat and into the world.” - HH Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji -

GLOBAL INTERFAITH GANGA WASH ALLIANCE ACTION PARIVAR

is the world’s first initiative to bring is a global family dedicated to the together the faiths as alllies in ensuring preservation of the River Ganga and everyone, everywhere has access to Her tributaries in their free-flowing safe, life-giving Water, Sanitation and and pristine state. Hygiene (WASH). www.GangaAction.org www.WashAlliance.org

DIVINE SHAKTI INDIA HERITAGE FOUNDATION RESEARCH FOUNDATION

is dedicated to the holistic well being Committed to education, healthcare, of women, their children, and or- interfaith harmony, the upliftment of phaned/abandoned children, and to all women as well as to the preservation to of Mother Nature. Indian heritage and culture. www.DivineShaktiFoundation.org www.ihrf.com

70 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 71 Thank You

The IYF thanks all of its partners in helping create this beautiful festival. We would especially like to thank:

Reliance Jio AIIMS-Rishikesh Naadi Yoga for providing free WiFi for providing free medical for providing free holistic care throughout the ashram, enabling care to festival participants to festival participants, seeing our participants to access the through physicians on-site and nearly 500 patients for issues internet ambulance services ranging from pain to stress to headaches

A very special thank you to all of our IYF Sevaks, who came from all over the world and without whom this festival would not have been possible.

72 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 73 74 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 75 76 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 77 78 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 79 80 | International Yoga Festival Parmarth Niketan | 81 Stay Connected

82 | International Yoga Festival