Filmmaker Trilok Malik hosting the event. / Courtesy Photo

The Manhattan chapter of the Global Organization for People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), in collaboration with Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Happy Life Yoga speaker Tirlok Malik, The Indian Panorama, and the Indian American Forum, hosted an interactive session on June.22 to celebrate International Day of Yoga. The event featured prominent experts and speakers who shared their insights on yoga and wellbeing.

Malik, known for his energetic demeanor, emphasized the importance of self-love, stating, "If you love yourself, it is your responsibility to take care of your happiness and health." He led practical exercises and chair yoga, interspersed with laughter, engaging participants from the New York area, other parts of the USA, India, and globally.

India’s Consul General in New York Shri Binay Srikanta Pradhana addressing the audience. /

The session’s Chief Guest, Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, highlighted yoga as a holistic body-mind-spirit system. He praised GOPIO and Malik for organizing the inclusive event.

As the host for the fourth consecutive year, Malik invited speakers to discuss how they manage life's challenges and maintain joy. Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson of the Indian American Forum, shared her mantra: "Always have a positive outlook and believe in yourself."

Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, Editor-Publisher of The Indian Panorama, noted that happiness is internal, adding that the principles of Patanjali yoga help avoid causing unhappiness to others.

Medical professional Tara Shajan encouraged revisiting happy childhood memories and lowering one's happiness threshold. Neeta Bhasin, founder of Times Square Diwali, emphasized prioritizing personal happiness. Filmmaker Neha Lohia advised viewing life’s events as 'prasad' from God, while wellness and spirituality webmag ALotusInTheMud.com founder Parveen Chopra recommended regular exercise, yoga, and meditation to prevent future physical and mental health issues.

Interactive Zoom session to celebrate International Day of Yoga. / Courtesy Photo

Dr Renee Mehra, host of the "Zoom in with Renee" online show, conducted a short meditation session. Other speakers included GOPIO International President Lal Motwani, AIA National President Gobind Munjal, ‘Vegan Ambassador’ Anil Narang, and Deborah Fishman.

In his welcome address, GOPIO International Chairman Dr Thomas Abraham spoke about the organization’s objectives and encouraged non-members to join. GOPIO-Manhattan President Shivender Sofat urged attendees to share the session’s messages with others.

Tirlok Malik, who has conducted over 100 Happy Life Yoga workshops over the past four years, designed this workshop inspired by Ayurveda, yoga, and Indian philosophy to help people live happier and healthier lives in challenging times.