The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago and Mindful Meditation Yoga celebrated International Yoga Day with great enthusiasm and a vibrant display of community spirit. The event, held at Naperville Yard Indoor Sports Complex on June 23, 2024, attracted over 1,000 participants from diverse backgrounds, all united in their love for yoga, health, and harmony.

The morning began on time, embodying Yoga Anushashan or Yoga Discipline, with a common yoga protocol session led by certified instructor and lead organizer Anu Malhotra. The event was orchestrated with precision by a dedicated team of over 30 volunteers, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all attendees. The overall event experience was led and managed by Falguni Sukhadia, Strategy and Planning Director and Chief of Staff for International Yoga Day, under the leadership of both MMY and FIA.

A unique highlight of this year’s celebration was the inclusion of free, live music that reverberated through the Naperville Yard. Professionals and yoga practitioners performed uplifting and serene compositions, creating an atmosphere filled with positive vibrations. The music, described as both therapeutic and inspiring, enhanced the overall experience, complementing the yoga and meditation sessions perfectly.

Dignitaries present at the event included key figures such as FIA Founder Chairman Sunil Shah, Consul Officer Sanjeev Pal, Mayor of Naperville Scott Wehrli, and Alderwoman Shwetha Baid. These leaders emphasized the significance of yoga as a gift from India to the world, symbolizing unity and harmony. The growth of International Yoga Day was highlighted, noting a substantial increase in participation over the years. The event also saw enthusiastic participation from local leaders like Linda Davenport (Court Judge), Paul Leong (Councilman), Pratibha Jairath (former President – FIA), Vinita Gulabani (President Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago and Indo American Cultural Association), and Kathy Thorat (Global Eye Media), who praised the city’s commitment to health and wellness.

The main highlight of the event was the opportunity to learn and experience yoga under the guidance of Certified Yoga Teacher Anu Malhotra. This transformative session allowed participants to engage not only in physical postures but also immerse themselves in the mental and spiritual aspects of yoga. One participant eloquently captured the essence of the experience, stating, “It is Unity in Serenity leading to a healthy mind and a healthy body.”

Following the yoga session, a Bhakti yoga segment featured melodious singing accompanied by musical instruments, creating an exhilarating atmosphere. Volunteers from SEWA and HUM ensured smooth distribution of water and free ‘Satvik’ food, and they assisted with cleanup efforts, demonstrating community spirit and teamwork.

The celebration was organized in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Chicago and supported by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Numerous organizations joined hands to make it the largest Yoga Day in Chicagoland, showcasing the power of collaboration and cultural diversity. Media promotion and coverage were provided by various media outlets, and social media efforts were managed to ensure wide-reaching engagement.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks to all participants, volunteers, and sponsors who made the event possible. International Yoga Day in Naperville was a resounding success, reflecting the city’s commitment to health, wellness, and cultural diversity. Plans are already underway for next year’s celebration, promising an even larger and more inclusive event, as noted by Anu Malhotra and Sunil Shah.