Yoga Connects Pune to Mula-Mutha River

Early on Sunday morning, several Pune residents convened at four sites along the Mula-Mutha riverbank to celebrate International Yoga Day. The gatherings were orchestrated by the Pune River Revival and Jeevitnadi groups, with approximately 12-15 volunteers participating. The core objective was to use yoga, a practice meaning 'to connect,' to foster a bond between citizens and the river, while simultaneously drawing attention to pollution concerns and the ongoing riverfront development project.

Guided by instructor Pooja Vaidya, attendees explored meditative yoga through breathing exercises and accessible movements, encouraged to absorb the natural surroundings. Vaidya emphasized that yoga is a holistic way of life, encompassing interactions with people and the environment, not just physical poses. Sanjeev Naik, an organizer, noted that while yoga is often practiced in parks, reconnecting with a natural river environment offers a richer engagement with nature.

Attendees like Arati Desai highlighted the riverbank's serenity and its role as a climate protector. She expressed strong opposition to the riverfront development, labeling it a "river destruction project" that threatens heritage trees and the biodiversity they support. Volunteer Wrutuja B corroborated these concerns, pointing to increased heat from concrete, a narrowing river, and its transformation into a sewage line.

Organizers expressed hope that such events would resonate with citizens, fostering pride and protection for natural spaces. They aim to restore and connect small patches of biodiversity, a goal achievable only with active resident involvement. The sessions were designed to be community-oriented and hyper-localised, with a strict emphasis on leaving the area pristine. The event concluded with gentle music, ensuring the site was left clean of litter.