Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan among the notable speakers at this Inaugural event
NEW YORK (TIP): On Saturday, June 21, 2025, nearly 5,000 participants gathered in the heart of Central Park for UPLIFTNY25, a powerful and inspiring day filled with yoga, meditation, music, and holistic healing. Marking both International Yoga Day and Summer Solstice, the full-day event was presented by The Giving Back Foundation in collaboration with The Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness and Recreation and the Indian Consulate in New York.
Attendees of all ages participated in a diverse lineup of activities designed to promote mental well- being, spiritual growth, and community connection.
“UpliftNY25 was a powerful reminder that when we come together in the spirit of service and unity, we create real and lasting change ” noted Meera Gandhi, founder of The Giving Back Foundation. “I am deeply moved by the compassion and commitment shown by everyone involved. This is how we build a better world—one act of kindness, one heart at a time.. The energy was radiant, and the impact will ripple far beyond this moment.”
“As we gather in the spirit of mindfulness and shared purpose, may this celebration encourage us all to embrace yoga’s values in our daily lives—for personal well-being and for a more sustainable and compassionate world,” said Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York in his inaugural speech welcoming guests to the event.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in a wide range of wellness activities led by renowned practitioners and performers including:
- Yoga and meditation sessions with Inga Benson, Madame Gandhi, and Tirlok Malik
- Aura chakra healing, led by Miriam Belov
- Astrological predictions, with celebrity astrologer Darryl Gaines
- Spiritual guidance on managing anxiety and stress, with Bhushan Deodhar of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s Art of Living
- Live music and DJ sets by Madame Gandhi and DJ Rekha
- A high-energy closing dance session led by Daybreaker
In a special moment, several audience members had the opportunity to ask questions of spiritual leader Bushan Deodhar, including a young girl from local organization Global Girls Glow, who asked about strategies for overcoming stress and anxiety.
Participants were also treated to morning tea sponsored by Organic India, a complimentary vegetarian lunch, and beverages from Smartwater and The Hemp Division of Harney & Sons, which offered samples of their Sparkling Elixirs.
Be the first to comment