Kumar Bahukhandi
Raipur ( Pragati College ) : A workshop on yoga and meditation for stress and mental health was organised at Pragati College, Raipur on Saturday January 24, 2026 . Dr. Rajiv Chaudhary, Head of the Department of Physical Education, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, was the chief speaker on the occasion .
The program began with Saraswati Puja and the lighting of the lamp. Following this, the college principal, Dr. Soumya Nayyar emphasised the importance of meditation for students preparing for competitive examinations. She stated that everyone should practice yoga and meditation to lead a physically and mentally healthy life.
Subsequently, the chief speaker, Dr. Rajiv Chaudhary, shared his views. The workshop began with a verse from the Upanishads, in which he discussed physical, mental, social, and spiritual development, as well as the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) described in the Sushruta Samhita.
He discussed the symptoms of mental illness, such as excessive eating, sleeping, forgetfulness, anger, anxiety, and fear, and suggested remedies.
He explained that the definition of yoga varies in the Vedas, Gita, and Upanishads, stating that controlling the fluctuations of the mind is yoga. He emphasised that the power of adaptation creates a unique identity in society. From a spiritual perspective, he discussed balancing Ida and Pingala with the help of Sushumna to activate the chakras.
Through the workshop, he taught the students of the education department the art of living. He discussed the definitions of yoga given by Manu, Kuluka, Swatmarama, Patanjali, and Rishi Shwetambar, and highlighted the usefulness of yoga and meditation in life.
At the end of the program, Dr. Rajiv Chaudhary guided the students through yoga and meditation exercises.
The program was conducted by Dr. Gunjan Sharma. The vote of thanks was given by Dr. K.N. Gajpal, Head of the Department of Education.
Present on this occasion were the college principal Dr. Soumya Nayyar , Administrator Jyoti Thakur, Bhuneshwar Yadav, Upasana Srivastava, Swaleha Nisa, Chinmayi Das, Pooja Sahu and all the faculty members and students of the B.Ed. and D.El.Ed Departments .
