Vivekananda Kendra Vedantic Application of Yoga and Management (VKVAYAM), Solapur, organized the First Regional Yoga Conference – “Yoga Shastra Sangamam” from 26th to 28th June 2026 at Solapur. The central theme of the conference was “Patanjali Yoga Sutras.” The primary objective of the conference was to facilitate an in-depth study of the scientific, practical, and research-oriented aspects of yoga and to promote the yogic way of life on a broader scale.
The three-day conference was attended by around 185 yoga practitioners, researchers, teachers, students, scholars, Vivekananda Kendra karyakartas, and well-wishers from Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka.
The inaugural session was held on Friday, 26th June 2026, and was inaugurated by Pujya Swami Swarupananda Saraswati ji of Shruti Sagar Ashram, Phulgaon, Pune District. In his keynote address, he explained that yoga is not limited merely to physical practices like asanas but is a spiritual path leading towards the realization of one’s inner self. He emphasized the importance of studying the deeper aspects of yoga and contemplating the Patanjali Yoga Sutras to understand the purpose and direction of life.
The inaugural session was presided over by Dr. Suhasini Shah, Chairperson, Precision Foundation, Solapur. During the session, the Marathi translation of the English book “Meditation: Concept and Process” authored by late Vivekananda Kendra life-worker Shri Satishji Chaukulkar was released. The translated book, titled “Dhyan Sankalpana Paddhati va Anubhuti” (Meditation: Concept, Method and Experience), was translated by Dr. Lalita Namjoshi, Dombivli.
Each day of the conference began with prayer, Aikya Mantra chanting, collective recitation of Patanjali Yoga Sutras, and yoga practice sessions. Bhajan Sandhya programmes were conducted on 26th and 27th June, creating a spiritually uplifting and devotional atmosphere throughout the conference.
The boudhik sessions were among the major highlights of the conference. Four sessions were conducted by eminent scholars who presented various dimensions of yogic philosophy and practice.
On 27th June 2026, Dr. Shriram Agashe ji, yoga philosopher and scholar from Thane, conducted two sessions. The first session focused on Antaranga Yoga (Internal Yoga), and the second session explained the concept of Samapatti in depth. He elaborated on the journey of a seeker from concentration of mind to the attainment of Samadhi. The first session was chaired by Dr. Lakshmikant Dama ji, Vice-Chancellor, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University.
The third boudhik session, held on 28th June 2026, was delivered by Dr. Vikas Gokhale ji, yoga scholar from Thane, on the topic “Karma Yoga in Patanjali’s Yogic Philosophy.” He explained that selfless action, dedication towards duty, and surrender are essential aspects of yogic practice.
The fourth session was conducted by Aadaraneeya Shri Ravi Sharma ji, All India Yoga Pramukh, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari. He presented Swami Vivekananda’s vision of Raja Yoga and highlighted the importance of mental strength, concentration, self-confidence, and self-realization. The sessions provided participants with deeper insights into the scientific, philosophical, and practical dimensions of yoga.
Three research sessions were conducted during the conference, where 22 research papers were presented. The presentations covered various topics including Antarayas (obstacles) mentioned in Patanjali Yoga Sutras, Ishwara concept, Vibhuti Pada, scientific aspects of yoga, and relevance of yoga in modern life.
The research papers were reviewed by Dr. Lalita Namjoshi, Dr. Narendra Joshi ji, and Dr. Vikas Gokhale ji. Dr. Narendra Joshi presented an insightful analysis of the philosophical and practical aspects of Patanjali Yoga and emphasized that yoga is a holistic approach towards personality development. Dr. Lalita Namjoshi guided participants on research paper preparation and presentation methods. Certificates were awarded to all researchers.
On 27th June 2026, wall displays and posters prepared by participants based on the Patanjali Yoga Sutras were unveiled. Shri Abhay Bapat ji, Maharashtra and Goa Prant Pramukh, introduced participants to the activities, vision, and mission of Vivekananda Kendra.
The cultural programme held on the evening of 27th June 2026 beautifully reflected the integration of yoga, devotion, and Indian culture. Students of Vivekananda Kendra Sanskar Classes presented the activities of the Kendra, including Sanskar Classes, Study Circles, Kendra Classes, Yoga Classes, and various service projects.
Gyan Prabodhini, Solapur, presented the impact of pranayama classes conducted for women working in the beedi industry and shared inspiring experiences of transformation through yoga.
Shri Srinivas Katve ji and team from Sri Niyamba Nrityalaya presented Bharatanatyam performances depicting Vishnu Darshan and themes from the Patanjali Yoga Sutras. Young sisters from the Solapur District Yog Parishad presented yoga postures through dance. The cultural programme conveyed the message of yoga, Indian culture, nationalism, and the service activities of Vivekananda Kendra.
The valedictory session was held on 28th June 2026 in the presence of Dr. Gopalkrishna Joshi ji, Vice-Chancellor, MIT Vishwaprayag University, Solapur. In his address, he highlighted that social transformation is possible through the adoption of a yogic lifestyle. He expressed that when parents follow yogic values, the upbringing of future generations becomes stronger and more effective.
During the concluding session, Shri Ravi Sharma ji presented the various yoga initiatives undertaken by Vivekananda Kendra at the national level and expressed confidence that this regional conference would provide encouragement and momentum to yoga research activities in Maharashtra.
A literature and publications stall was arranged throughout the three-day conference, receiving an encouraging response from participants. Comprehensive arrangements were made for accommodation, sattvic meals, medical support, registration facilities, technical arrangements, and participant assistance. The dedicated efforts of volunteers reflected the spirit of service, discipline, teamwork, and commitment.
The conference provided participants with a meaningful experience of the scientific, philosophical, practical, and research dimensions of yoga. It successfully conveyed the message that yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a holistic way of life based on the vision of oneness. As a confluence of knowledge, practice, research, culture, and collective effort, Yoga Shastra Sangamam has created a strong foundation for future initiatives in yoga promotion and research.
The Nakaya Trust, Chennai, represented by Shri Mouli Ji, extended substantial financial support for the successful organization of the First Maharashtra Regional Yoga Shastra Sangamam Conference. Gratitude towards the trust was expressed during the valedictory session.
