In a world increasingly obsessed with external forms of wellness, a profound initiative is set to remind us of yoga’s inner essence. ‘The Spirit of Yoga’, a special International Day of Yoga celebration, is being co-hosted by the globally respected Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization and the premier conscious media platform ALotusInTheMud.com on June 22 at the serene Global Harmony House in Great Neck on Long Island.
Going beyond yoga postures
While most Yoga Day celebrations revolve around physical postures and public demonstrations of flexibility, ‘The Spirit of Yoga’ program seeks to reclaim yoga’s soul, rekindling its spiritual roots.
“We are focusing on yoga as a way of being – anchored in awareness, self-realization, and harmony,” says Parveen Chopra, Founding Editor of ALotusInTheMud.com and co-moderator of the event. “Yoga, as in Patanjali’s 8-limbed path, finds its fulfillment in dhyan, yoga asanas are just a part and accessory.”
Yoga, as in Patanjali’s 8-limbed path, finds its fulfillment in dhyan, yoga asanas are just a part and accessory.
~ Parveen Chopra
Founder of ALotusInTheMud.com and co-moderator of the event
Eminent guests and a transformative program
The event will witness a lineup of dignitaries, spiritual leaders and practitioners who bring wisdom, inspiration, and the lived experience of yogic values to about 250 seekers in the hall, and many more attending virtually.
- Chief Guest: Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, who will speak on India’s gift of yoga to the world.
- Spiritual Blessings by: BK Mohini Didi, the revered Chief Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris international organization.
- Guest of Honor: Eddie Stern, yoga instructor and founder of the Broome Street Ganesha Temple in Manhattan.
- Raja Yoga Meditation: Guided by Sister Gayatri Naraine, the NGO representative of the Brahma Kumaris at the United Nations.
- Sound Bath Meditation: By Andonia Fthenakis, an Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner, to foster energetic alignment and deep relaxation.
- Dance of Yoga: A creative interpretation of yogic expression by Dr. Anjali Grover, MD, integrating movement and meaning.
Experience the essence
Set in the tranquil atmosphere of Global Harmony House, a spiritual sanctuary and the regional headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris for the Americas and the Caribbean, this gathering is designed to be an immersive, contemplative, and celebratory experience.
Attendees will enjoy not only spiritual insights but also a nurturing sattvic meal – a wholesome vegetarian offering that reflects the yogic values of purity and non-violence.
Why is this event unique
Held just one day after the official UN International Day of Yoga (June 21), this event is more than a celebration – it’s a call to return to authenticity.
The true spirit of yoga is about connecting to our highest self and the Supreme through spiritual awareness.
“In today’s commercialized wellness world, yoga is often reduced to fitness,” says Sr. Gayatri Naraine, the NGO representative of the Brahma Kumaris at the UN. “But the true spirit of yoga is about connecting to our highest self, to the Supreme, through spiritual awareness.”
ALotusInTheMud.com was launched with blessings from the Indian Consulate in New York in 2023. Since then, it has grown as a powerful platform for spiritual journalism, bringing together voices from diverse traditions to help and heal people and the world.
About the Brahma Kumaris
A global spiritual movement active in over 130 countries, the Brahma Kumaris offer courses in Raja Yoga meditation, value-based living, and inner leadership. Their Americas headquarters, located at Global Harmony House, serves as a lighthouse for peace, knowledge, and self-transformation.
www.GlobalHarmonyHouse.org
About ‘A Lotus in the Mud’
A not-for-profit online wellness and spirituality magazine, ALotusInTheMud.com, is rooted in timeless wisdom yet deeply relevant to modern life. Featuring interviews and articles from sages and scientists alike, it bridges Eastern spirituality with Western inquiry. Launched from New York in 2023, it has grown as a powerful platform for spiritual journalism, bringing together voices from diverse traditions to help and heal people and the world.
www.ALotusInTheMud.com
The Spirit of Yoga event details
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Followed by refreshments
Venue: Global Harmony House, 46 South Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, NY 11021
Free entry | Register by June 15 at https://tiny.cc/spirit-of-yoga-2025
Contact for press, partnerships, or participation queries:
Sr Anjani Seepersaud, Coordinator, Global Harmony House: + 1 516-234-4620
Parveen Chopra, Founding Editor, ALotusInTheMud.com: + 1 516 710 0508
