Yoga - Yoga Blog #Yoga Sastra SangamamYoga - Yoga Blog #Yoga Sastra Sangamamhttps://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/tag/yoga-sastra-sangamamFri, 20 Feb 2026 14:39:56 +0530http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[8th Yoga Sastra Sangamam held at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/yoga-sastra-sangamam-2025

8th International Conference on Yoga Philosophy

The 8th International Conference on Yoga Philosophy, Yoga Sastra Sangamam, was organized by Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, in collaboration with the Center for Yoga and Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University, and the Central University of Himachal Pradesh. The conference was held at Vivekanandapuram, Kanyakumari, from February 28 to March 2, 2025, with the participation of 700 attendees, including delegates, guests, and the organizing team.


Sixty-five renowned yoga institutions, including Mahatma Gandhi University, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Aarambh Yoga Institute, BARC Yoga Circle, Bihar School of Yoga, Bodhi School of Yoga, GhantaliMitra Mandal, Jadavpur University,  Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Kshitij Centre of Yog and Ayurved, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education & Research, NIMHANS, Sanatana Yoga Vignana Kendra, Sadhguru Yoga Vidyalayam, Satyam Traditional Yoga, Satyananda Yoga Centre, Scientific Pranayama Foundation Trust, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Academy, SVYASA University, Thane School of Yoga, The World Community Service Centre, Vethathiri Maharishi College of Yoga, Yoga Bharati Foundation, and many others, were represented at the conference. The event featured five plenary sessions and fifteen parallel paper presentation sessions held across five venues within the campus, with 150 scholarly papers presented on Yoga Vasistha.

The three-day conference commenced with PatanjaliHomam, featuring the chanting of the 108 names of Maharishi Patanjali at 6 AM each day, followed by yoga practice sessions. The asana practice was led by Sanyasi Shivarishi Ji from the Satyananda Yoga Centre, Chennai, while the pranayama sessions were conducted by Dr. Devaki Madhav from the Scientific Pranayama Foundation Trust, Mysore.

The conference was graced by the presence of Paramacharya Paramahamsa Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, the spiritual successor of Swami SatyanandaSaraswati and a 2017 Padma Bhushan awardee. His inspiring presence and profound wisdom deeply influenced the delegates, enriching the discussions with invaluable insights.

Inaugural Session

The inaugural session took place on February 28 at Swami Vivekananda Sabhagriham. The event was honored by the presence of Hon’ble Governor of Kerala, Shri RajendraVishwanathArlekar; Mananeeya Sri Balakrishnanji, All-India President of Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra; and Dr.Harilakshmeendra Kumar, Director of the Centre for Yoga and Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University.

In his address, Hon’ble Governor Shri RajendraVishwanathArlekar emphasized the significance of the Yoga Sastra Sangamam in promoting the philosophy of yoga and preserving ancient wisdom. The conference proceedings, containing abstracts of the presented papers, were released during the inaugural session. Additionally, the book ‘Yoga Practice: A Handbook for Higher Education’, authored by Dr.Padmanabhan TV and Dr.Harilakshmeendra Kumar, was unveiled.

The delegates were treated to a captivating dance recital (Natya Yoga) by the students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kanyakumari. Additionally, a visit was organized to the exhibitions on the campus and the mid-sea Vivekananda Rock Memorial, offering them a chance to get inspired by Swami Vivekananda. An opportunity was also provided for delegates to showcase their advanced yoga postures, and unique talents, highlighting their expertise and dedication to the practice.

Plenary Sessions and Presentations

The plenary sessions featured renowned speakers, including Sri T. Raghunandan, Dr. K. Subrahmanyam(Chancellor of SVYASA, Bengaluru), Yogashri N.V. Raghuram, and ParamacharyaParamahamsa Swami NiranjananandaSaraswati. Each session provided deep insights into Yoga Vasistha, demonstrating its relevance to contemporary yoga practice.

Several engaging events were conducted as part of the conference, including paper presentations, poster presentations, and Patanjali Yoga Sutra chanting competitions. Over 150 scholars presented their papers across fifteen parallel sessions, held at five different venues over the first two days. Eminent scholars served as moderators, ensuring insightful discussions and guiding the sessions with their expertise. The posters, created by delegates, illustrated various concepts of Yoga Vasistha and were prominently displayed outside the auditorium.
Valedictory Function


The valedictory session was held on March 2, beginning with the chanting of the 108 names of Maharishi Patanjali, followed by the collective recitation of all four Padas of the Patanjali Yoga Sutras by the delegates.

The function was graced by Dr. TV Padmanabhan Ji,Visiting Faculty at the Centre for Yoga and Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam; Smt. SushmaMaurya,Head of AarambhYog, Mumbai; Sri Raghunandan Ji, author of the book ‘The Wisdom of Vasistha’; Sri AnandSahasrabuddhe Ji, Yoga Teacher from Thane; and Sanyasi Krishnayogam Jifrom the Satyananda Yoga Centre, West Mambalam, Chennai. Their presence added great value to the valedictory ceremony, marking the successful conclusion of Yoga Sastra Sangamam 2025.
Photo Gallery
]]>Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:27:41 +0530<![CDATA[7th Yoga Sastra Sangamam held at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/yoga-sastra-sangamam-2024

Yoga Shastra Sangamam a unique yoga conference

The 7th International Conference on Yoga Philosophy, called Yoga Sastra Sangamam, was held at Vivekanandapuram Kanyakumari from 2nd to 4th February 2024. There were 458 delegates, of whom 202 were Men and 256 were Women. The delegates are from 16 states (Tamilnadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bengal, Bihar & Delhi) of Bharat and eight other countries (USA, Japan, Bali, Australia, Canada, Ethiopia, Namibia, Tanzania).

Thirty-three renowned Yoga and Sanskrit institutions (Academy of Yoga Consciousness, Amrita Vidyalaya, Arunayoga Training & Research Institute, Bharat Yoga Vidyalaya, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Central University of Kerala, Chaitanya Wellness Yoga Academy, Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth, DAVV School of Yoga, Indian Yoga Association, Karnataka Samskrita University, Kavi Kulguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Kusha Yoga, Mahatma Gandhi University, Bodhi School of Yoga, NIMHANS, Padma Yoga Sadhana Terna Medical Collage, PSGR, Sadhana Jyoti Mandir, Sanatana Yoga Kendra, Sanchi University of Buddhist Indic Studies, Sataguru Yoga Vidyalaya, Shri Ambika Yoga Kutir, Shri krushna Yoga Institute, Sree Shankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Sreepuram Yoga Mandir, SVYASA, University of Patanjali, Yenepoya Naturopathy and Yoga Medical College, Yoga Bharati, Yoga Certificate Board, Ministry of Ayush, Yoga Vidya Niketan, Yogaarthi) were represented in this Sangamam.  There were four plenary and twelve parallel sessions at four venues.  There were 124 scholarly papers presented from 20 Yogopanishads. Daily in the morning, on an average 100 delegates participated in the Patanjala Homam, performed with the chanting of the Yoga Sutras and the 108 names of Maharashi Patanjali.

World-renowned Yoga and Ayurveda Acharya Vamadeva Shastri Dr David Frawley was present along with Yogini Shambhavi Devi for all three days. Their presence and knowledge inspired all the delegates and added immense depth to the discussions and interactions. 

Inaugural Session: The Inaugural session of the Yoga Sastra Sangamam was held in the Vivekananda Sabahgriham on 2nd Feb. Mananeeya Sri Balakrishnanji, President Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra, Acharya Vamadeva Shastri, Yogini Shambhavi, Dr Harilakshmeendra Kumar, Honorable Director of Centre for Yoga and Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University, Yogasri Sri NV Raghuram, Founder Director Yoga Bharathi, Bengaluru blessed the delegates with their were presence. 

In his inaugural address, Dr David Frawley emphasised the importance and necessity of such conferences to unearth the contents and knowledge of Yogopanishads in the present world, wherein yoga has been getting recognition for mere health and fitness. The effect of such philosophical conferences will correct the direction of understanding of Yoga in theory and practice.

A 174-page Conference proceedings containing the abstracts and synopsis of all the papers presented was released during the Inaugural function. Delegates were treated with an enthralling dance recital by the students of VKMHSS, Kanyakumari. A visit to the Rock Memorial was arranged to glimpse the towering bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda.

Plenary Session: The plenary session were addressed by Dr David Frawley, Yogini Shambhavi, Dr K Subrahmanyam,Pro-Chancellor, SVYASA, Bengaluru, Yogashri NV Raghuram, Sri T Raghunandan, Dr K Padmanabhan, Visiting Faculty of  Yoga in MGU, Kottayam. The valedictory function was held on 4th Feb with the chanting of the Yoga Sutras by all the delegates. All the 124 scholars who presented papers received their certificates from Acharya Vamadeva Shastri and Yogini Shambhavi.
Read Conference Proceedings
]]>Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:30:00 +0530<![CDATA[Kanyakumari's Yogic Charm: Yoga Sastra Sangamam and Key Attractions]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/key-attractions-of-kanyakumari

The 7th International Conference on Yoga Philosophy, the Yoga Sastra Sangamam, is scheduled to take place at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, from the 2nd to the 4th of February 2024. This conference, organized in collaboration with Mahatma Gandhi University Kerala and Central University of Himachal Pradesh, promises to be a unique convergence of philosophy, knowledge, and practical dimensions of Yoga.


This time, the Yoga Sastra Sangamam finds its home in the serene and peaceful ambiance of Vivekanandapuram Campus in Kanyakumari. Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula, Kanyakumari stands as a mesmerizing convergence point of nature's beauty, pilgrimage sites, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. Here are some must-visit destinations that make Kanyakumari a pilgrim's delight:

Vivekananda Rock Memorial: The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a mid-sea monument dedicated to Swami Vivekananda's historic meditation on this rock. It stands as a unique symbol of unity and purity, embodying the aspirations of the nation. The memorial is a harmonious blend of architectural beauty from across the country, symbolizing the collaborative effort of the entire nation. Situated on a rock island and accessible via ferry, this iconic monument offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, and Arabian Sea, providing visitors with an ethereal experience.

Thiruvalluvar Statue: Adjacent to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial is the impressive Thiruvalluvar Statue. This 133-foot-tall stone structure represents the famous Tamil poet and philosopher. Its setting at the meeting point of three seas makes it truly remarkable.

The Kanyakumari Devi Temple: The Kanyakumari Devi Temple, also known as the Bhagavathy Amman Temple, holds immense spiritual significance as a pilgrimage destination in Kanyakumari. Dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari, the temple is esteemed for its architecture and detailed carvings. Pilgrims and tourists frequently visit this sacred site to witness the stunning sunrise and sunset from its premises, finding it spiritually fulfilling and visually captivating.

Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam: The Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, erected at the spot where his ashes were kept for public viewing before immersion. The unique design of the building enables sunlight to illuminate the exact spot where Gandhi's ashes were kept, occurring every October 2nd on his birth anniversary.

Wandering Monk Exhibition: The Wandering Monk Exhibition is a permanent pictorial exhibition situated near the Kanyakumari Devi temple. It offers inspiring insights into the life and message of Swami Vivekananda. The exhibits here showcase Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, philosophical wisdom, and his numerous experiences during his extensive wanderings as a monk across India from 1888 to 1893.
]]>Sun, 03 Dec 2023 11:23:00 +0530<![CDATA[6th Yoga Sastra Sangamam held at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/6-Yoga-Sastra-Sangamam-2023
Vivekananda Kendra organised International Yoga Sastra Sangamam from 24th to 26th February 2023 at Vivekanandapuram, Kanyakumari. Total number of 419 participants consisting of 212 men and 207 women participated from 16 states of Bharat, from Singapore, Bali and Afghanistan.

During this international conference 5 plenary sessions and 11 parallel sessions were held. 115 papers were presented by research scholars, PhD. Students, professors, Yoga teachers, Yoga practitioners and Yoga consultants. Swami Shivananda Babaji from Varanasi aged 127 years who is the recipient of Padmashree award was present in the Yoga Sastra Sangamam on 24th and 25th February. His Divine presence and Yogic life style was an inspiration and blessing to everyone.  Presence of a living Yogi was an illustration of Yoga Sastra. The book containing the proceedings of the conference was released during the inaugural session.

The conference was co-organised with Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala and Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharmashala. There were delegates from leading universities, institutions and organizations. Conference was inaugurated by Swami Shivanandaji and graced by Mananeeya Balakrishnanji, President of Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Vivekananda Kendra and Mananeeya Nivedita Bhide Didi, Vice president of Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Vivekananda Kendra. 

On all three days, Patanjali Homam was conducted at the Ushodaya time and concurrently Patanjali Ashtottaram and Yoga Sutras were chanted by the delegates. The beautiful soul elevating dance recital by the students of VKV Kanyakumari added the colour to the Conference. Some of the students and delegates demonstrated advanced Asanas. There were five winners out of the eleven delegates who participated in the Patanjali Yoga Sutra chanting competition.

Mananeeya Bhanudasji Dhakras, General Secretary of Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Vivekananda Kendra addressed the delegates in the valedictory function held on 26th February.
Click Here to read Conference Proceding
]]>Tue, 28 Feb 2023 11:12:00 +0530<![CDATA[5th Yoga Sastra Sangamam held at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/5th-Yoga-Sastra-Sangamam
Swami Vivekananda  brought  Yoga to the word,  Vivekananda Kendra will bring Yoga Sastra to the world.  -  Sri NV Raghuram from Yoga Bharati

The fifth Yoga Sastra Sangamam was held at Vivekananda Kendra, Vivekanandapuram, Kanyakumari from 25th to 27th February 2022. In all 216 delegates and 11 guests participated in the deliberations. The National Conference was organised with the collaboration of Centre for Yoga and Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala and supported by Indian Yoga Association. Dr Jayaraman Mahadevan of IndicA Yoga explained in four sessions the depth of Hatha Pradipika Text. His sessions were highly appreciated by one and all for the scholarly exposition of this important Yoga Sastra in detail. On 25th evening there was a grand cultural fete by the students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kanyakumari.

The Yoga Sastra Sangamam was inaugurated by the Honourable Governor of Kerala Sri Arif Mohammed Khan. He in his inaugural address traced the roots of Yoga in Vedas, Upanishads, Astavakra Gita and the traditional texts. He summed up with the message of yoga to the modern age. Honourable Governor also released the ‘Conference Proceedings’ containing all the abstracts of the paper presentations and the Vivekananda Kendra Patrika titled ‘The Saga of Vivekananda Rock Memorial’.

Mananeeya Nivedita Bhide, Vice President, Vivekananda Kendra in her inspiring scholarly address explained the importance of Sastra and Science. She emphasised that yoga is the life based on the foundations of Dharma.

Dr Harilakshmeendrakumar, Director, Centre for Yoga Naturopathy, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala expressed his happiness for collaborating with such a unique national conference on Yoga Sastra.

Simultaneously three multi track paper presentation sessions were held at three different venues in which 70 scholarly papers were presented by Yoga Professionals, Phd. Research Scholars, Doctorates in Yoga and Sanskrit. There are 10 foreign delegates, seven from Afghanistan and three from Nepal. Three key note addresses were given by Dr K Subrahmanyam of Svyasa, Sri NV Raghuram from Yoga Bharati, Bangalore and Dr TV Padmanabhan from Mahatma Gandhi University. The Yoga Sastra Sangamam was concluded on 27th February with Patanjala Yoga Sutra Parayanam led by Dr Jayaraman Mahadevan.
]]>Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:35:00 +0530<![CDATA[2nd Yoga Sastra Sangamam held at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari]]>https://www.vrmvk.yoga/blogs/post/the-2nd-yoga-sastra-sangamam-dec-2018
The Three Day Yoga Shastha Sangamam (Convention) was organized by Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari at Vivekanandapuram, Kanyakumari. It was inaugurated by Kum Nivedita R. Bhide, Vice Preseident of Vivekananda Kendra as its Chief Guest by delivering the Inaugural Address she emphasized on the aspects that of this type of convention has the significance in todays' human life. She said that to understand the real and original value of Yoga such type of convention is need of the hour. Dr. M.V. Bhole ( Formerly of Kaivalyadham , Lonavla) was the Special Guest and he was present all three days.

Shri D. Bhanudas, General Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra delivered the valedictory speech on concluding Day (Dec 8th). Dr. L. Mahadevan Leading Ayurvedic practitioner, was the MAIN SPEAKER at the Valedictory function and enlivened the audience with his live KEYNOTE ADDRESS.

A Souvenir was released by Shri Dr. L.MAHADEVEN on the occasion in the presence of Shri  Bhanudasji and Dr M.V. Bhole . The first copies were received by Dr. R.K. Sharma and Dr. Padmanabhan who also had delivered the Keynote addresses on other two days.

151 participants from 15 states made this truly a National Convention. The presence of overseas participants from 5 countries showed the great interest taken in yoga by people from abroad. 92 gents, 59 ladies participated in the program. 36 paper presentations were witnessed in 8 sessions spread over 2 venues within the Kendra premises with 16 Moderators monitoring the sessions.

Many Universities and Institutions in Yoga, experts in Yoga, Students, Yoga Teachers, professors, other academicians, Yoga practitioners, Researchers on Yoga and  several yoga enthusiasts came under one umbrella to take to the world the greatness of Yoga and the Greatness of various Yogic Texts and Scriptures.
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