The Shakti School of Yoga, Malaysia, has etched its name in history by hosting the “Most Participants in a Yoga Competition,” earning a coveted spot in the Malaysia Book of Records. Held at Dewan The Grand in Lukut, Negeri Sembilan, the event drew over 2,000 attendees, making it a landmark moment in Malaysia’s yoga community.
The competition saw 778 participants register, with 741 of them gracing the stage. Participants, aged 4 to over 50, competed in various categories, showcasing three distinct asanas within a strict two-minute time limit. Judges assessed them on technicality, stability, expression, and overall presentation, ensuring fair evaluation beyond the difficulty level of the poses.
Speaking about the achievement, SK Durai, founder of the Shakti School of Yoga, shared, “As I lifted the recognition certificate from Malaysian Book of Records up in the air, the crowd erupted in excitement. The entire arena was engulfed with love and affection, for we have done it. Months of hardwork has finally come into fruition; a massive success in organizing Malaysian International Yoga Competition 2024.”
Flawless Execution Behind the Scenes
The event’s success was the result of meticulous planning and teamwork by 150 committee members, including teachers, volunteers, and students. Months of preparation ensured smooth execution, from participant management and cleanliness to media coordination and security.
Judges underwent specialized training to evaluate participants holistically, emphasizing the art of asanas as expressed through diverse body types. Durai noted, “Difficulty is subjective, because for each posture it presents different level of challenge to different bodies. Thus, we devised new techniques which allowed every participants to be judged fairly, promoting the art of asanas expressed through different type of bodies.”
The event kicked off with a vibrant Urumi Melam performance, followed by a mesmerizing Silambam demonstration, adding a rich cultural dimension to the proceedings. This fusion of cultural heritage and yoga created an atmosphere of unity and inspiration, underscoring the holistic essence of yoga.
Fostering Community and Personal Growth
Beyond setting a record, the competition celebrated the transformative power of yoga, fostering a sense of community among participants and spectators alike. It brought together people from all walks of life, uniting them in their shared passion for yoga.
The success of the Malaysian International Yoga Competition 2024 is a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the unifying spirit of yoga. It has set a benchmark for future events, inspiring practitioners across the nation to embrace and share the profound benefits of yoga.
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