MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav leads Surya Namaskar organised to mark Vivekananda’s birth anniversary

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Monday appealed to everyone, particularly the youth, to stay away from all kinds of addictions, avoid junk food, plant trees, devote at least half an hour daily to physical exercise, and play at least one favourite sport.

The CM was addressing participants at the state-level Surya Namaskaar event held at the Subhash School in Bhopal on ‘National Youth Day’ to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

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Dr Yadav noted that Swami Vivekananda infused new energy in the youth of the nation through his thoughts, as he was a great national thinker and was youthful not only in body but also in action.

He said yoga is an integral part of our Indian tradition, and the yogic practices of Surya Namaskar are the essence of our entire life. “Yoga is not merely a physical exercise, but a powerful medium to take our lives from normalcy to excellence. By practicing the 12 yogic postures included in Surya Namaskar daily, we can keep our bodies healthy and live happily.” Dr Yadav emphasized.

Under the guidance of yoga instructors, Chief Minister Dr Yadav performed three rounds of Surya Namaskar, each comprising 12 postures, and various Pranayama asanas along with all the students of Subhash School. He said that yoga has been an inseparable part of our culture for centuries.

The CM said that the Sun God transmits energy by illuminating the entire universe, and all festivals and celebrations in Indian culture begin with the lighting of a lamp, which symbolises the worship of the Sun God. It is through the radiance of the Sun God that life attains meaning and the body becomes filled with energy.

He called upon the people of the state to prepare themselves for building a developed and self-reliant India. He urged innovation and new creation to take the state forward, preservation of the ancient rich culture and heritage, promotion of indigenous products, and encouraging children to read books.

Addressing students, he said they should not limit themselves to their academic curriculum, but also acquaint themselves with the practical aspects of life.

Chief Minister Dr Yadav said self-study is also a powerful means of acquiring knowledge and everyone should practise it. He urged people to stay away permanently from all kinds of addiction and junk food, as junk food leads the body towards degeneration, and should be consumed as little as possible. He appealed to plant trees, devote at least half an hour daily to physical exercise, and play at least one favourite sport.

He also called for sensitivity towards women, children, and the elderly, and emphasized building character along with personality. He advised sharing emotions with family and friends, remaining hopeful rather than discouraged, and using modern technology with full understanding and sensitivity.

The Chief Minister said that Indian culture is based on the altruistic spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He urged everyone to live each moment of life with joy and move forward with the spirit of making life better for humanity, society, nature and oneself, along with others.

During the programme, the historic address delivered by Swami Vivekananda at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago, USA, was also broadcast.