Puttur: St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, celebrated the International Day of Yoga 2026 with great enthusiasm and fervour on Sunday. The programme was jointly organised by the NCC Army and Naval Wings of the college in association with the NCC units of St Philomena Pre-University College and St Philomena Aided High School. The event was held at the St Philomena Aided Highschool hall under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
The programme commenced with a formal inauguration through the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Very Rev. Fr Dr J. B. Saldanha, Correspondent of Maide Deus Educational Institutions.
Presiding over the celebration, Dr Saldanha, in his presidential address and blessings, highlighted the transformative power of yoga in shaping disciplined and responsible individuals. “The students of our institutions are known for their exemplary discipline, which brings solace and satisfaction to the mind. Yoga integrates the mind and body beyond all barriers of caste, creed and religion. The observance of Yoga Day will help young people lead a life of dignity and holistic well-being,” he remarked.
Among the distinguished guests present were Rev. Fr Ashok Rayan Crasta, Principal of St Philomena PU College, and Fr Maxim D’Souza, Headmaster of St Philomena Aided High School.
The programme was compered by S/Lt Thejaswi Bhat K., Associate NCC Officer of the NCC Naval Wing. The vote of thanks was delivered by Chief Officer Clement Pinto, ANO, NCC Naval Wing, St Philomena High School.
The celebration witnessed the active presence and cooperation of Capt. Johnson David Sequeira, ANO, NCC Army Wing, St Philomena College, and Chief Officer Peter Naresh Lobo, ANO, NCC Army Wing, St Philomena High School.
As part of the observance, NCC cadets and students participated in a series of yoga practices and demonstrations, reaffirming the importance of physical fitness, mental wellness and social harmony through yoga. More than 100 NCC cadets and students participated in the celebration.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to adopting yoga as a way of life for promoting health, discipline and overall well-being.