GWALIOR, INDIA, September 19, 2004: A unique world record was created when around 15,000 children from 180 schools gathered in Gwalior and performed surya namaskar, “sun salutation,” the famous hatha yoga sequence of postures or asanas. The children performed all the 12 asanas of the surya namaskar taking the salutation count to an astronomical 180,000. The event was organized by Vivekananda Centre and presided over by the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Babulal Gaur. “The most important motive behind this Sun salutation ceremony is that there should be all-round development of personality of children and a feeling of service towards country. When they do it together it creates a sense of togetherness. And the Guinness Book of World Records officials were informed so that yoga can be advertised worldwide,” said Mukul Kanitkar, the organizer, said. “We have vowed that when we grow up we will serve our country and will stand in the face of any threat to India,” Mridul Gupta, a seven-year- old boy, said. Surya namaskar is an appreciated exercise among people of all ages and categories. It is also considered to be one of the best ways to burn the calories and reduce weight. It is often recommended for obesity.
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