Bargarh (Odisha)–In the quiet early hours of Bargarh, a powerful movement is unfolding — led not by loud slogans or marches, but through the calm, rhythmic breath of women coming together on yoga mats. The Nehru Association, a respected community organization, has launched a dedicated yoga campaign exclusively for women, celebrating physical health, emotional peace, and spiritual strength ahead of International Yoga Day.
What began two years ago as a small morning group with a handful of homemakers has now grown into a local wellness movement that is inspiring hundreds. Through daily practice, these women are transforming their lives — embracing health, regaining confidence, and learning that empowerment can begin with a single breath.
For women in their midlife and beyond, the changes in the body and mind are often intense. Hormonal shifts, menopause, stress, and social pressures are all too real. In this context, yoga is proving to be more than just an exercise — it’s becoming a lifeline.
“Yoga is not just a practice, it’s a support system for a woman’s entire being,” says Shivani Bhoi, an experienced yoga instructor with the Nehru Association. “It strengthens the body, calms the mind, and nurtures the spirit. It is especially beneficial during pregnancy, postnatal recovery, menopause, and stressful periods of life.”
Yoga student Arati Mahapatra, a retired school teacher, shares her experience: “Yoga has become my secret to a vibrant life. I feel more active, more aware, and emotionally balanced. It has changed the way I relate to my body and my thoughts.”
The medical community also supports this growing movement. Ayurvedic Medical Officer Dr. Ajit Kumar Darjee, who actively engages with the campaign, highlights the scientific benefits of regular yoga.
“Practicing yoga reduces age-related ailments like arthritis, insomnia, osteoporosis, and high blood pressure,” he says. “It also lowers symptoms of depression and anxiety — conditions commonly overlooked among homemakers and elderly women. Regular pranayama and meditation lead to stronger mental resilience and a healthier body.”
He also emphasizes the value of yoga during pregnancy. “Under expert guidance, prenatal yoga helps ease delivery, reduce stress, and promote fetal well-being. It’s a gift for both the mother and child.”
Among the many participants, homemaker Leena Mishra stands out for her heartfelt story. “Earlier, I always felt there was no time for myself. My home responsibilities left me exhausted,” she explains. “But after joining this yoga session, I realized that time is not the issue — mindset is. Now I make time every day, and I feel mentally refreshed and physically energetic.”
Her story resonates with many. Women who once felt isolated or burdened are now part of a vibrant community. They not only stretch and breathe together but laugh, share, and uplift each other. What started as a wellness session has become a sisterhood.
Two years ago, the Nehru Association initiated this yoga program as a pilot project — specifically designed for women, many of whom had never before attended a fitness class. Under the guidance of yoga trainer Sushil Bhoi, his wife and instructor Shivani Bhoi, and Nehru Association women’s coordinator Anupama Mishra, the program took shape with discipline and compassion.
Initially attended by only a few, the daily morning sessions are now drawing a growing number of women from different backgrounds. From housewives and grandmothers to school teachers and entrepreneurs, the mat has become a common ground for hope and healing.
According to Anupama Mishra, “We noticed a gap — women were taking care of everyone else, but neglecting themselves. We wanted to change that. Through yoga, we’re offering a chance to reconnect with self-worth, health, and happiness.”
Beyond the physical benefits, the initiative emphasizes inner strength and self-respect. Participants report feeling more confident, more in control, and more willing to face life’s challenges.
“Many women came in feeling tired, burdened, even invisible,” says Shivani. “Now, they stand tall. They make eye contact. They speak with joy. This is what empowerment looks like — not just economic or political, but personal and emotional.”
The campaign’s growing impact was clearly visible during a recent special workshop held just ahead of International Yoga Day. With enthusiastic participation, the event highlighted how this local effort is blossoming into a powerful grassroots movement.
The success of this initiative in Bargarh offers a replicable model for other towns and districts across India. It proves that with minimal resources but maximum intent, communities can create safe and inclusive wellness spaces for women.
In the words of Dr. Darjee: “When we care for the health of women, we are caring for families, generations, and the social fabric itself. Yoga isn’t just a practice; it’s a quiet revolution.”
The Nehru Association’s women-centric yoga campaign is more than just exercise. It’s a journey of self-rediscovery, strength, and serenity. In a world that often demands too much from women and gives too little back, these morning sessions are sacred — a time to breathe, to stretch, to be.
As the world celebrates International Yoga Day, Bargarh stands as a glowing example of how small community efforts can lead to large-scale change. Through yoga, these women are reclaiming their bodies, their minds, and their voice.
And that, in itself, is a revolution worth celebrating.
