Nandyal celebrates International Yoga Day with student performances, activities

Students perform ‘yogasana’ in the ‘Om’ formation at a Yogandhra event held at the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam on Sunday. | Photo credit: ARRANGEMENT

On the occasion of International Yoga Day 2026, yoga sessions were organized by government departments, private educational institutions and temple managements in Nandyal, Kurnool and Anantapur districts.

The ‘Yogasanas’ performed by the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Agama School and the local Zilla Parishad High School in the ‘Om’ formation caught the attention of the devotees who visited Srisailam. A special rehearsal was set up for the event in the Gangadhara Mandapam located in front of the temple. The program was conducted with arrangements covering the area from Gangadhara Mandapam to Nandi Mandapam.

Srisailam Pothugunta Temple Board Chairman Ramesh Naidu, Managing Director M. Srinivasa Rao, Board Members and others were present. The temple priests and officials started the proceedings by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

A student dressed as Lord Siva performs ‘yogasana’ along with her teacher at the Srisailam temple on Sunday. | Photo credit: ARRANGEMENT

Meanwhile, Ongole children performed a traditional dance on ‘Shiva Stotram’ while renowned yoga instructor Gandhavalla Balasubrahmanyam explained various aspects of the practice and guided the participants in performing various asanas.

Mr. Ramesh Naidu said that the ancient sages established the tradition of yoga and gifted it to the world. “Having inherited this legacy, it is our responsibility to pass it on to future generations,” he said, stressing the need to teach yoga to children. He noted that temples have historically served as centers not only for devotion but also for education, healthcare and various other aspects of life, adding that practicing yoga in temple premises gives energy and enthusiasm.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that yoga is not only about asanas but also a way of life. “These asanas can help ease the stress and fatigue we experience in our daily lives easily,” he said.

Published – 21 Jun 2026 20:34 IST