Tribal Students in Vizag Aim for World Record with 108 Surya Namaskarams

Visakhapatnam witnessed an extraordinary display of discipline and dedication on Friday as over 25,000 tribal students from the Alluri Sitharama Raju district participated in a massive yoga session. This remarkable feat, involving the completion of 108 Surya Namaskarams in just 108 minutes, has set the stage for a new world record, with the official announcement anticipated on Saturday, coinciding with International Yoga Day celebrations.

Students from various tribal welfare and Ashram schools, spanning regions like Paderu, Ananthagiri, Pedabayalu, Chintapalli, Araku, G. Madugula, and Hukumpeta, showcased impressive coordination and confidence throughout the rigorous session. While some students had been diligently training for three to four months, others managed to prepare in a mere few weeks, highlighting their adaptability and commitment.

A Coordinated Effort Towards a Shared Goal

Before the session commenced, each student received a yoga mat and a barcode, which was meticulously scanned to record attendance, ensuring the precision required for a world record attempt. Under the expert guidance of senior yoga instructor Pathanjali Srinivasa Rao, the participants began their synchronized movements with 'Omkaram,' culminating in the completion of all 108 Surya Namaskarams within the ambitious 108-minute timeframe.

The students' excitement and pride were palpable. P. Anusha from G. Madugula shared, "We are proud to participate in the event. We had been training hard for the event. It is a completely different experience to perform yoga in unison. We feel more focused and active in our studies ever since yoga was introduced in our school."

K. Santosh from Araku couldn't hide his thrill. "We were thrilled when we heard that we would be part of a world record event and that we might get a chance to perform yoga in front of Prime Minister Narendra Modi." Even Venkatesh, a Class IX student from Araku, who initially felt nervous seeing the vast crowd, quickly found his stride. "I was shocked to see such a large gathering. But once I saw all my classmates there, excitement took the place of the nervousness. We are very happy to be a part of such a mega event," he expressed.

Yoga to Become a Curriculum Staple

Following the impactful yoga session, IT Minister Nara Lokesh lauded the students for their exemplary discipline and dedication. He made a significant announcement: yoga classes would be integrated into the regular curriculum, practised once a week in all government schools starting June 21. This move underscores the growing recognition of yoga's benefits beyond physical fitness, extending to mental focus and overall well-being.

Mr. Lokesh also highlighted the Central government's support, noting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "special affection for Visakhapatnam," evidenced by his second visit to the city within a year. He further confirmed that the students had indeed achieved a world record through their participation, with the official recognition set to be announced during the grand International Yoga Day celebrations on Beach Road on Saturday.