India and Yoga

Yoga is a divine science and philosophy of life.



The word originated from the term ‘yuj’, meaning ‘union’ or ‘joint’, which has its roots in Sanskrit. It is defined as a harmony between body and mind. The founder and father of this traditional spiritual activity is Sage Patanjali.

The history of Yoga dates back to almost 26,000 years during the Golden age in the city of Rishikesh. Rishikesh is considered to be the capital of yoga. The city is located on the banks of Ganges at the foot of Himalayas.

Yoga is an integral part of Hinduism or Hindu philosophy that practices certain activities and limitations to keep mind and body free from impurities and attain liberty of soul.



Many Indian men and women have practiced yogic activities hundreds of years ago that were directed towards higher spiritual attainment. Without Hinduism, yoga would not have been splurged up with so much popularity round the globe. Many intellectuals and spiritual leaders of India have worked hard to attain the supreme goal of life and eventually made efforts to spread the message of Hinduism and Yoga.

India also witnessed the origin and introduction of a new community during the period when yoga originated.



The community is popularly known as Buddhism. Because yoga and Buddhism evolved during the same period of ancient India, these are called sister traditions. Both yoga and Buddhism are believed to follow the same principles and practices.

Many western companies are working ways to patent the art of Yoga but yoga is inherently wound into Indian life.



It was and will always remain an indispensable part of the Indian culture and tradition. Like basmati rice, turmeric and many other traditional India products, Yoga is also something that the Indian Government is fighting for to prevent from Western patent.

India and yoga are two sides of a coin that cannot be separated.



If you want to have a deeper knowledge of how yoga originated and how it is linked to Hinduism and Buddhism, refer to the pages ahead.