Mysuru: The stage is set for International Yoga Day celebration at the sprawling 139.30 acre Mysore Race Course which is at the backdrop of the foothill of iconic Chamundi Hill and lush green outfield which attracted nearly 8000 Yoga enthusiasts during full-fledged final rehearsal on June 17. More than 70,000 people are expected to take part in the event which will be held on June 21 from 6 AM to 8 AM.
During all the three rehearsals which were held in front of Mysuru Palace and Mysore Race Course premise, a good number of people turned out while for the main event on Thursday, the organisers are expecting more than 70,000 people. Among 139 acres at the race course, the district administration is using just 71 acres for yoga event. To accommodate nearly 70,000 participants for the Yoga event, the district administration has arranged 70 blocks and in each block, nearly 1000 people can be easily accommodated. To give instruction to participants, each block will have a volunteer and a guide. The seating arrangements are based on the first-come-first-serve basis. To facilitate the participants, the district administration has taken all measures including basic facilities like drinking water, toilets, health centre, snacks and police security has been set up at the Mysore Race Course premises. Those participating in the event should just bring their Yoga mats and the rest will be taken care of by the organisers. The Yoga demonstration will be held between 6 AM and 8 AM and all the participants are advised to be at the venue at the earliest and take their positions within the stipulated time.
Speaking to Newskarnataka, Janardhan, Deputy Director, Department of Tourism said, “Though we are not going for any record, we are expecting nearly 70,000 people which is more than last year. The DDPI and JSS have assured to get 15,000 participants each while DDPU, NCC and NSS too will get a good number of participants for the celebration. On Wednesday, the deputy commissioner visited the ground.” As a precautionary measure, the organisers have arranged four ambulances which will be kept at four different corners and 10 doctors and an equal number of nurses and other supporting staff will be present at the venue.
“There are seven gates and in each gate, 10 makeshift toilets have been arranged. Drinking water has also been arranged at prominent places. After the event, with the help of few NGOs, the corporation will take up cleanliness drive at the venue. On Thursday, all the seven gates will be opened from 5 AM to 6.45 AM. Participants should come early and occupy their respective places. The event will start at sharp 7 AM and conclude at 7.45 AM. More than 150 makeshift toilets have been arranged at the premise. After the event, with the help of few NGOs, corporation will also take up cleanliness drive.
It may be recalled that last year the district administration, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner D Randeep had attempted for two Guinness Book of World Records titles for largest chain link Yoga and highest participants on a single platform. Though Mysuru missed the record in chain link Yoga the district administration managed to create a record by gathering maximum participants on a single platform.
Place – Mysore Race Course
Expected turnout – More than 70,000
Timings: 6.30 AM to 8 AM
Facilities–Free bus facility to the venue from 5 AM.
