- Workshop focuses on systematic study of Bhaviti Pada in light of Vyasa’s commentary
- Experts highlight relevance of Patanjali Yoga Sutra in understanding human mind, discipline and consciousness
The Ministry of AYUSH’s Morarji Desai National Yoga Institute (MDNYI) today inaugurated a five‑day national workshop on “Patanjali Yoga Sutra: Bhaviti Pada (in light of Vyasa’s commentary)”. The workshop is being held from 26 to 30 October 2026. Its aim is to deepen participants’ understanding of Bhaviti Pada through systematic study of the Patanjali Yoga Sutra and its traditional interpretation.
Former professor of Vedic Philosophy, Dr. Krishna Kant Sharma of the Sanskrit Vidya Dharma Vigyan Faculty (SVDV) at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, participated as subject expert. He stressed the importance of linking classical knowledge with practical teaching. He said, “MDNYI is committed to providing a deep understanding of the classical yoga text Patanjali Yoga Sutra as well as practical knowledge. The teachings of Maharishi Patanjali offer important insights into understanding and managing human suffering through yoga.”
MDNYI Director Dr. Jyoti Keswani highlighted relevance of Patanjali Yoga Sutra in personal development, discipline and awareness. She said, “This classical text inspires us to become better humans by developing discipline and awareness and learning to control ego (asmita). Each study presents a new perspective. The Bhaviti Pada, which describes siddhis, presents profound concepts that inspire philosophical debate and further scientific inquiry. It encourages us to understand this traditional knowledge with an open mind and also underscores the need for systematic research to comprehend its importance and potential applications.”
MDNYI Communications and Documentation Officer and Deputy Director (In Charge) Mohammed Tayyib Alam emphasized importance of adopting yoga teachings in daily life. He said, “The true essence of yoga lies not in memorising sutras but in adopting their teachings in everyday life. The Bhaviti Pada, enriched with philosophical depth of Vyasa’s commentary, provides deep insight into the discipline and purpose of yoga. I believe this workshop will promote dialogue, learning and spread of India’s classical yoga tradition.”
MDNYI Programme Officer Dr. I. N. Acharya discussed contemporary relevance of Patanjali Yoga Sutra, especially in understanding and controlling human mind. He said, “In today’s world, where access to information is constantly easier and life has become more complex, Patanjali Yoga Sutra offers valuable guidance for understanding and controlling the human mind and encourages vigilance and awareness.”
The third chapter of Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhaviti Pada, describes advanced dimensions of yoga practice. It includes perception, meditation and samadhi, collectively called restraint. It also elaborates on various siddhis (yogic achievements), their implications and the need for discernment to understand their importance in spiritual progress.
This workshop provides an academic platform for in‑depth exploration of these concepts through systematic study of sutras and traditional commentary of Vyasa. Its aim is also to study relevance of classical yoga teachings in understanding philosophical foundations of Patanjali yoga and higher states of yogic discipline and consciousness.
Assistant Professor Dr. Indu Sharma of MDNYI’s Yoga Education Department is coordinating this workshop.
Through such academic initiatives, MDNYI promotes systematic study of classical yoga texts and strengthens understanding of India’s rich yogic and philosophical heritage.