𝗬𝗼𝗴𝗮, 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗙𝗬𝗠 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

The pristine shores of the world-famous Pangong Lake provided a spectacular backdrop for a special Yoga and Meditation programme organized by the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), Leh, as part of the ongoing International Festival of Yoga and Meditation (IFYM) 2026.

The event brought together officers and Jawans of the Indian Army, civil administration officials, local community members, students, and delegates from India and abroad in a unique celebration of Yoga, peace, culture, and harmony amidst the breathtaking landscape of eastern Ladakh.

The programme was attended by Col. Amit Kumar Chobey, Commanding Officer, 17 Rajput; Shri Zaheer Abbas, Superintendent of Police, Changthang; Lt. Col. Sanjeev Balayan, AAG, 255 Armoured Brigade; Maj. Vishal Katheriya, Officer Commanding, Thakung Base; Shri Konchok Stanzin, Former Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh; and Shri Phuntsog Nurboo, representative of the Nambardar of Man Merak Village, besides participants and delegates of the International Festival of Yoga and Meditation from India and abroad.

The programme commenced with a welcome and introductory address by Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena. Addressing the gathering, he described Yoga, Meditation, Karuna (Compassion), Ahimsa (Non-Violence), and the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family) as among India’s greatest gifts to humanity. He emphasized that Yoga and Meditation are not confined to any religion, sect, or belief system but are universal sciences of health, well-being, and inner transformation.

Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena further highlighted the special relevance of Yoga for the officers and Jawans of the Indian Army serving in the demanding high-altitude conditions of Ladakh. He noted that Yogic practices contribute significantly to physical fitness, mental resilience, emotional balance, and stress management. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army for their generous support and logistical arrangements in facilitating the programme at Pangong Lake.

The practical Yoga session was led by Swami Vachananda, assisted by Ms. Rishika Sangwan of The Yoga Institute, Mumbai, and Ms. Shalini Mundade. Participants enthusiastically took part in the Yoga Asana and breathing exercises, experiencing the benefits of Yoga amidst one of the most serene natural settings in the Himalayas.

A major highlight of the event was the cultural and Yoga performances presented by the students of Mahabodhi Residential School. The students showcased an impressive Yoga Demonstration, followed by a patriotic dance dedicated to the brave men and women of the Indian Army. They also presented a beautiful Black-Necked Crane Dance, paying tribute to the iconic bird that inhabits the Changthang region and symbolizes the unique ecological heritage of Pangong and its surrounding wetlands.

Adding further colour and vibrancy to the occasion, members of the Man Merak Village community presented traditional cultural performances and folk dances, reflecting the rich heritage and hospitality of the Changthang region. Renowned Ladakhi singer Shri Phuntsog Ladakhi also enthralled the audience with a special musical performance that was warmly appreciated by all present.

As a gesture of gratitude and appreciation, commemorative mementos of the International Festival of Yoga and Meditation 2026 were presented to the attending Army officers, civil administration officials, and representatives of the local community in recognition of their support and cooperation.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting Yoga, Meditation, environmental awareness, cultural preservation, and universal peace. Held against the magnificent backdrop of Pangong Lake, the event beautifully reflected the spirit of the International Festival of Yoga and Meditation 2026 and its vision of fostering harmony between humanity, nature, and the inner self.