The Sherp takes a look at the various Indian festivals that do justice to one of our country’s most ancient practices, yoga.
Yoga is probably, and arguably, India’s biggest export to the world. A mindful practices that nourishes body, mind and soul, millions of people have turned to the yogic lifestyle for want of a healthier life. But the yoga movement owes its genesis to India, where its was birthed and has thrived since several centuries now. So it’s only fair that India celebrates it in the most unbridled nature.
Here are the 5 Indian Yoga Festivals that really make us proud.
1. International Yoga Festival
Where: Rishikesh, India
Since Yoga is an Indian practice to have gained recognition the world over, it’s only fair that Indians would know a fair bit about organising a Yoga Festival. The International Yoga Festival happens along the banks of the river Ganges in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, under the tutelage of expert Indian Yoga teachers. People from all over the world come to engage in traditional yoga practises coupled with kirtans and spiritual activities.
2. The Groove Yoga Festival
Where: Goa
The Groove Yoga Festival is a travelling gathering of yoga workshops that takes place in Ontaro, Canada, Berlin, Germany and Croatia and culminates with coming to Goa every October. The principle idea of The Groove Yoga Festival is sustaining and celebrating the community spirit, and studying the effect of the same on the wellness of the individual’s spirit. It achieves this with various special activities around yoga and meditation.
3. India Yoga Festival
Where: Goa
Goa seems to make for an ideal yoga retreat. With sun-kissed beaches, greenery, adoption of alternative lifestyles and the confluence of various global cultures who pursue wellness retreats, this comes as no surprise. The India Yoga Festival is one that promises intimate gathering, while immersing oneself in Yogic practices, kirtans and bhajans, and social interaction. Combining spiritual awareness with yoga, it is one of the country’s most popular Yoga attractions.
4. Zambhala
Where: Goa
Zambhala is the true creative pursuit a yoga follower can get. Taking place in Bardo, Panjim in December every year, Zambhala follows an expressive outlook, as it brings together yoga practitioners, healers, artists and musicians together, for a getaway unlike any other. It claims to be India’s largest yoga and spirit festival, with a turnover that hits thousands. The community of Zambhala is niche, as it comes together to promote interaction and belonging.
5. Yoga – Rainbow Festival
Where: Goa
The Yoga-Rainbow Festival is a travelling festival of yoga that oscillates between the countries of Turkey, India and Russia. When in India, it heads to Goa for a yogic sojourn, replete with mindfulness and tranquility. Taking place in an intimate gathering between the hills of Morjem and Ashwem, the festival is blessed with exclusivity. In addition, the festival brings together the best yoga instructors from around the world, for an ascetic getaway.