Visva-Bharati University is set to become a prominent hub for yoga and wellness with the establishment of a dedicated Yoga Park and Yoga Village. This ambitious project will also incorporate facilities for yoga therapy and naturopathy treatments. The Union Ministry of Education has already allocated ₹10 crore for this initiative, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting traditional Indian health practices.
Visva-Bharati Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bidyut Chakraborty, shared details of the upcoming Yoga Village, which will feature a range of specialized units. These include Dhyan Kutir (meditation chamber), Pranayama Kutir, Yogasan Kutir, Ayurveda Kutir, Kriya Kutir, Yoga Therapy Kutir, and a medicinal garden. This comprehensive setup aims to cater to various aspects of yogic practice and holistic well-being.
A National Initiative and Public Access
The Visva-Bharati project is part of a broader national plan to develop 1,000 yoga parks across the country, with Visva-Bharati University being one of the chosen locations. Significantly, the authorities are considering opening both the Yoga Park and Yoga Kutir not only to students and faculty but also to the general public. This move would allow a wider community to benefit from the facilities and embrace the advantages of yoga.
Emphasis on Holistic Well-being
Prof. Chakraborty emphasized the profound significance of yoga, stating, “Yoga is an ancient subject of our country. Exercise is necessary for physical fitness, but yoga is essential for the care of the mind and soul. Yoga brings discipline into our lives.” He extended his gratitude to the Central Government and the UGC for allocating ₹10 crore for this project, which will span 35 acres.
The Vice-Chancellor further highlighted the importance of making these facilities accessible to the general public for their physical well-being. The inclusion of yoga therapy is a key aspect, leading to the development of a medicinal garden to support these treatments.
Promoting Yoga Ahead of International Yoga Day
This initiative by Visva-Bharati University, under the supervision of the central government, is a significant step towards promoting and expanding yoga practices, especially in the run-up to International Yoga Day on June 21.
Prof. Chakraborty and Samiran Mondal, Principal of Vinaya Bhavana, affirmed Visva-Bharati’s role as a leading center for the study of yoga art and science. The Yoga Village will boast modern infrastructure, including the aforementioned Dhyan Kutir, Pranayama Kutir, Yogasan Kutir, Ayurveda Kutir, Kriya Kutir, along with a Yoga Museum, Yoga Library, and facilities for naturopathy treatment.
The establishment of this comprehensive Yoga Park and Village at Visva-Bharati is poised to make a substantial contribution to the understanding and practice of yoga, benefiting both the academic community and the wider society.