Over 5,000 joins International Yoga Day celebration

The Sakthi School of Yoga, under the esteemed leadership of Master S.K. Durai, achieved a historic milestone during its 11th International Yoga Day celebration on June 21, 2025. Held at MAEPS grounds in Serdang, the event drew an unprecedented crowd of 5,368 active participants, officially entering the Malaysia Book of Records for the largest participation in a yoga session.

A total of 6,098 attendees registered for the event, representing a diverse community of yoga practitioners from across Malaysia and abroad, including Singapore and India. This year’s turnout reflects the school’s growing international influence and its steadfast commitment to spreading the practice of yoga as a tool for holistic wellness.

Master S.K. Durai expressed deep pride in the momentous achievement, stating, “This event has offered not just a platform to showcase skill and dedication, but a deeper opportunity to connect with the inner self and with others through the universal path of yoga.”

Cultural heritage sets the stage

The day’s festivities began with a vibrant cultural procession, immersing attendees in the rhythmic pulse of South Indian traditions. An energetic urumi melam procession welcomed guests, followed by intricate Mayilattam (peacock dance) and Karagattam (balancing pot dance) performances. These traditional acts infused the celebration with cultural richness and set a spirited tone.

One of the standout moments was a dynamic Silambam demonstration—an ancient Indian martial art form—delivered with precision and passion by trained students. The inclusion of these heritage elements added a deeper cultural resonance, blending art and mindfulness as a prelude to the main yoga session.

Yoga as a multigenerational expression

The central yoga session was a powerful display of inclusivity and discipline. Children opened the session with energizing kids yoga performances, while senior citizens impressed the audience with graceful and poised movements, embodying the ageless benefits of yogic practice. The session continued with synchronized Surya Namaskaram (Sun Salutations), followed by the Sakthi Kriya—Master Durai’s signature sequence designed to awaken and channel inner energy.

One of the most emotional highlights of the day was the pregnancy yoga performance, symbolising resilience, nurturing strength, and maternal well-being. This was followed by a visually compelling Ramayana-themed yoga display that fused epic storytelling with physical flow, offering a unique blend of narrative and movement that captivated the audience.

A unified effort for wellness and peace

The event’s success was made possible by the dedication of 130 committee members—teachers and students—who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure flawless execution. From stage direction to crowd management, every detail was meticulously handled, reflecting the strong community spirit at the heart of Sakthi School of Yoga.

But beyond the numbers and performances, it was the atmosphere of unity that truly defined the occasion. Individuals of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds came together in a shared experience of peace and vitality, reaffirming yoga’s timeless relevance as a bridge between people and cultures.

As the final chants echoed across the MAEPS grounds and the crowd stood in quiet reflection, it was clear that the 11th International Yoga Day had become more than just a celebration—it was a testament to Malaysia’s multicultural harmony and the enduring power of yoga.