International Yoga Day 2025: The Path of Balance, Strength & Self-Discovery

योग: न सिर्फ़ आसन, बल्कि आत्मा का अभ्यासन।

Every year on 21st June, the world unites to celebrate International Yoga Day—a global movement that originated in the spiritual heart of India and now resonates across continents. But for the students at Centurion Defence Academy, Yoga Day is more than a celebration—it’s a way of life. It’s the day they reaffirm their commitment to mental strength, emotional balance, and physical excellence.

As India’s leading institute for NDA, CDS, AFCAT, MNS, and SSB preparation, Centurion understands that true success in defence services is not just about written scores or fitness tests—it’s about developing the mind-body-spirit connection that yoga so beautifully nurtures.

The Global Impact of Yoga – Born in India, Embraced by the World

In 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the United Nations General Assembly, he proposed the idea of celebrating Yoga at an international level. The proposal received support from 177 countries, and the first International Yoga Day was celebrated on 21st June 2015.

Why 21st June? Because it’s the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolizing light, energy, and transformation—just like yoga itself.

Yoga: A Gift from India to the World

Yoga originated over 5,000 years ago and is deeply rooted in the Indian tradition. It combines physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation (dhyana), and ethical practices (yamas and niyamas) to promote holistic well-being.

But more than anything, yoga teaches discipline, focus, self-awareness, and inner calm—qualities that are essential for anyone aspiring to wear the uniform and serve the nation.

Yoga at Centurion: A Pillar of Defence Aspirants’ Preparation

At Centurion Defence Academy, yoga isn’t just a wellness activity—it’s a vital part of our holistic training system. From sharpening mental focus for competitive exams like NDA, CDS, and AFCAT through breathing techniques and meditation, to managing stress and emotional control during intense SSB rounds, yoga equips aspirants with inner calm and resilience. Regular yoga practice enhances memory, concentration, and OLQs—making candidates more balanced and confident. Additionally, yoga-based warm-ups such as Surya Namaskar, Vrikshasana, and Bhujangasana build core strength, flexibility, and stamina, serving as a powerful foundation for Physical Aptitude Tests (PAT), especially for MNS and NDA aspirants.

Unfolding Courage: The Untold Story of a Kargil Hero at Centurion’s International Yoga Day 2025

These weren’t just words — they became a lived experience at Centurion Defence Academy during the grand celebration of International Yoga Day 2025 at our Residential Campus, Lucknow.

This year’s celebration was unlike any other. The atmosphere was filled with energy, discipline, and inspiration as we welcomed a true son of the soil, a symbol of unmatched bravery — Capt. Shatrughan Singh Ji, Veer Chakra awardee, and Kargil War Hero.

Slide into History: A Warrior from Jubar Hill

Belonging to the 1 BIHAR Regiment, Capt. Shatrughan Singh led a daring operation during the Kargil War in the fierce Batalik Sector, specifically at the strategic Point 4268 – Jubar Hill.

Under continuous enemy fire, when most would falter, he rose like a true leader — showcasing fearless leadership and unparalleled bravery, even as he sustained a severe injury in his leg. His courage wasn’t just in action — it was in spirit.

The Honour of a Lifetime: Veer Chakra

For his extraordinary act of gallantry, he was awarded the prestigious Veer Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, by then President K. R. Narayanan on 29th May 1999.

That moment was not just a medal ceremony — it was a nation saluting its finest, a story etched in the heart of every Indian who values bravery.

“No wings. No capes. Just courage in the heart and olive green on the chest.”

From Ballia to Bharat ke Veer: A Soldier’s Journey

Hailing from a humble village Dhudhiala, Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, and born to a farmer’s family, Capt. Shatrughan Singh Ji is living proof that greatness isn’t born — it’s forged through duty, discipline, and fire.

His story is not just about a battlefield — it’s about the mindset, the commitment, and the sankalp (resolve) that defines a soldier’s life. Today, as he resides in Lucknow, he continues to be a living inspiration for every youth dreaming to wear the olive green.

When Yoga Met Shaurya at Centurion

At Centurion’s International Yoga Day event, Capt. Singh Ji shared a thought that captured the essence of both the warrior’s path and the yogi’s discipline:
“Santulan wahi hai, jahan Shaanti aur Sankalp saath chalein.”

In a world full of distractions, he reminded our students that true preparation for NDA, SSB, or any defence exam begins from within. It is not just physical stamina, but mental clarity, emotional control, and spiritual focus that make a true officer.

A Salute from Team Centurion!

We at Centurion Defence Academy are deeply honoured to have hosted such a legendary figure.

Under the leadership of Shishir Sir — India’s favourite Defence Exam Mentor — our students from the NDA Pragati Batch, Tejas Batch, CDS Batch, Sukhoi Foundation, MNS, and BrahMos Batch etc absorbed not just a session of yoga, but a life lesson in patriotism, resilience, and courage.

Capt. Shatrughan Singh Ji didn’t just attend an event — he left behind an imprint on every heart that beats for the nation.

Yoga Day at Centurion: More Than Just a Celebration

Every year, Centurion Defence Academy organizes mass yoga sessions in Lucknow and Dehradun on International Yoga Day. The event is attended by aspirants, trainers, mentors, and staff with the objective to:

• Spread awareness of the benefits of yoga
• Instill discipline and focus in aspirants
• Celebrate Indian cultural heritage
• Reignite the warrior spirit through yogic energy

Students of various batches like NDA Tejas, Sukhoi, BrahMos, Pragati batch [India’s only girls batch for NDA], etc, took part in the poster making competition, and also students who excelled in mock tests in Centurion were felicitated and given prizes and medals for their excellent performance by Capt. Shatrughan Singh Ji, Veer Chakra awardee, along with Shishir Sir – India’s Favourite Defence Exam Mentor.

At Centurion Defence Academy, we strongly believe in recognizing and celebrating excellence. Appreciating top performers not only boosts their confidence but also motivates others to rise. Because at Centurion, we grow together – in life, in learning, and in every mission we take on.

[Celebrating International Yoga Day 2025 At Dehradun Centre Of Centurion Defence Academy] 

Real Heroes, Real Discipline: Defence & Yoga

Indian Army units, Navy cadets, and Air Force officers regularly incorporate yoga into their training schedules. Even at the Siachen Glacier, Indian soldiers practice yoga to cope with extreme altitudes.

At Centurion, aspirants are inspired by these real-life heroes who don’t just train their bodies—but also nurture mental clarity, emotional control, and spiritual stability through yoga.

Final Thoughts: Train Your Breath Before You Train the Body

In today’s chaotic and overstimulated world, yoga is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a defence aspirant or a student, yoga will anchor you, guide you, and strengthen you.

Centurion Defence Academy remains committed to building the next generation of officers—not just with mock tests and obstacle training, but with deep-rooted personal development practices like yoga.