News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (June 27, 2026 - July 3, 2026) July 3, 2026 18 Community India-US Forum Of Monroe Township Celebrates International Day of Yoga T he India-US Forum of Monroe Township (IFM) marked In- ternational Day of Yoga with a community gathering on June 22 at the Monroe Township Senior Center, embracing this year’s global theme, “Yoga for Healthy Aging.” The event brought together commu- nity members of all ages to reflect on yoga’s ancient roots and its continued relevance in promoting physical, men- tal and emotional well-being. Organizers emphasized that yoga is more than a form of exercise, describ- ing it as a pathway to harmony between the body, mind and spirit. Particular at- tention was given to the role of regular yoga practice in supporting healthy aging by improving mobility, calming the nervous system and fostering inner resilience. IFM President Hemant Patel, yoga instructor Nidhi Pandya and IFM board members Andy Paluri, Nayna Patel and Santosh Pathuri pose during the India-US Forum of Monroe Township’s International Day of Yoga celebration on June 22, 2026. Photos: Organizers The two-hour session was led by Nidhi Pandya, a fellow IFM patron and certified yoga instructor. Participants were guided through gentle yoga postures, breathing exercises, meditation and mindful relax- ation techniques. The gathering attracted individuals from diverse backgrounds, including students, professionals and active seniors, who participated in a shared atmosphere of learning and community engagement. The evening concluded with remarks from IFM President Hemant Patel and the organization’s leadership team, who thanked volunteers and community part- ners for helping make the event possible. Through the celebration, IFM reaf- firmed yoga’s enduring message that health, peace and longevity begin from within. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:ORGANIZERS Certified yoga instructor Nidhi Pandya leads participants through a yoga session during the India-US Forum of Monroe Township’s International Day of Yoga celebration at the Monroe Township Senior Center on June 22, 2026. The event observed this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Aging.” IFM President Hemant Patel, yoga instructor Nidhi Pandya and IFM board members Andy Paluri, Nayna Patel and Santosh Pathuri pose during the India-US Forum of Monroe Township’s International Day of Yoga celebration on June 22, 2026. H asini Rangaswamy, an honor roll student and rising junior at John P. Stevens High School, is preparing to celebrate a major artistic milestone while supporting an important cause through her passion for Indian classical arts. On June 27, Hasini will present her Bharathanatyam Rangapravesha, the traditional debut performance of a Bharathanatyam dancer, at the Union County Perform- ing Arts Center in New Jersey. The event will also feature Chitrakala Pradarshana, a solo exhibition of her traditional Tanjavur paintings. In a gesture that reflects her commitment to commu- nity service, Hasini will sell her custom, gold-embellished artwork during the event and donate 100 percent of the proceeds to initiatives supporting children’s mental health. The young artist’s initiative brings together years of disci- plined training in classical Indian dance and painting with a desire to make a meaningful impact beyond the stage. Her efforts underscore the role of art as a vehicle for both cultural preservation and social responsibility. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Hasini is an active volunteer at RWJBarnabas Health, local preschools and community gardens. She is also a member of her school’s HOSA club and hopes to pursue a career in healthcare. As a first-generation artist, Hasini said she hopes her creative expressions inspire empathy and raise awareness about causes that affect children and communities. Her up- coming recital and art exhibition represent not only a cel- ebration of Indian classical traditions but also an example of youth leadership rooted in service and compassion. EVENT DETAILS What: Bharathanatyam Debut and Tanjavur Painting Gallery Exhibition Who: Hasini Rangaswamy When: June 27, 2026 Where: Union County Performing Arts Center, New Jersey By a StaffWriter J.P. Stevens Student Makes Classical Dance Debut For A Cause PHOTO:GUNAPRIYA DHAYALAN Hasini Rangaswamy in traditional Bharathanatyam attire ahead of her Rangapravesha debut recital on June 27 in New Jersey.