Our Bureau
River Edge, NJ
Veterans Memorial Park came alive with energy, Yoga and community spirit as more than 300 residents and visitors gathered for the 4th Annual International Day of Yoga celebration in River Edge, Bergen County.
Held on the Summer Solstice, the event brought together families, wellness enthusiasts, community organizations, and elected officials for a day dedicated to healthy living, connection, and personal well-being. The Mayor of River Edge, Thomas Papaleo, along with representatives from the New Jersey State Assembly, State Senate, and U.S. Congress, presented official proclamations recognizing International Day of Yoga and its growing impact on community health and wellness. Indian Consul Pragya Singh from New York graced the occasion & enjoyed the splendid 12th International Day of Yoga event.
A highlight of the morning was the ceremonial proclamation delivered by Bergen County Town Crier Tim Yuskalis, who enthusiastically shared yoga’s timeless message of balance and harmony while also recognizing the nation’s celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary.
The county’s only International Day of Yoga event opened with guided meditation by Sahaja Yoga Meditation, followed by a variety of yoga and wellness experiences including pranayama (breathing techniques), family yoga, chair yoga, and laughter yoga. Sessions were led by renowned Yoga instructor Priti Dhariwal, founder of Yoga Lotus LLC, together with fellow yoga and meditation instructors. The program was emceed by River Dell High School alumna Anushka Dhariwal.
Participants of all ages enjoyed an engaging lineup of activities throughout the day. Local Girl Scouts from GSNNJ took part in a special yoga and fitness program, while students from JS Taekwondo Center, under the guidance of Master Yun, showcased impressive martial arts demonstrations. Young attendees also explored their creativity through hands-on art activities led by Vandita Sharma from Creative Kidz. The afternoon featured an uplifting movement session led by dance therapist Annetta Zaltzberg, encouraging participants to celebrate wellness through music and movement.
With clear blue skies, sunshine, and a refreshing summer breeze, the event offered a welcoming environment for the entire community. The River Edge PBA distributed complimentary yoga mats and invited residents to participate in a fun “Strike a Pose with a Cop” activity. Members of the River Edge Ambulance Corps provided free health screenings and shared information about volunteer opportunities, while the River Edge Fire Department’s popular “Touch-a-Truck” exhibit gave children and families an opportunity to explore emergency vehicles up close.
The celebration concluded with the collective chanting of “Om” by Tejal Shah of Vishal Hindu Parishad of America and a peaceful heartfulness meditation led by Nupur from Rajya Yoga, leaving participants feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected.
Guests also enjoyed complimentary refreshments throughout the day, including healthy snacks, water, energy drinks, nutrition bars, and traditional Indian samosas.
“International Day of Yoga continues to unite people from all backgrounds through a shared commitment to wellness,yoga and community,” said Priti Dhariwal, founder of Yoga Lotus LLC, USA Yogasana Championship Gold Medalist, and an athlete at the inaugural World Yogasana Championship, that recently happened in India. “We are deeply thankful to the River Edge Recreation Department, our elected officials, community partners, volunteers, and every participant who helped make this celebration such a meaningful success.”
Now in its fourth year, River Edge’s International Day of Yoga celebration continues to foster health, harmony, and inclusivity while strengthening community connections through the transformative practice of yoga.
About Yoga Lotus LLC
Founded by Priti Dhariwal, Yoga Lotus LLC has provided yoga, meditation, wellness, and fitness programs throughout Bergen County and neighboring communities for more than two decades, serving children, adults, seniors, and individuals of all abilities.
