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Kaivalyadhama has been actively engaged in improving the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors since 2015.
Our long-term study conducted on our residential “Beyond Cancer” programme offered from 2015-2017 showed remarkable improvements in the mental health and quality of life of cancer survivors even after 1 year of returning back to their normal lives. They also reported psychological empowerment in leading their life with increased resilience, peace and equanimity after completing the programme.
Aims to facilitate discourse on the scope, evidence & future of yoga in cancer care
Invites national and international experts to convene in a hybrid format
Provides a platform to discuss innovative approaches and best practices
Underscores Kaivalyadhama's commitment to advancing integrative therapies in cancer care
Aims to facilitate discourse on the scope, evidence & future of yoga in cancer care
Invites national and international experts to convene in a hybrid format
Underscores Kaivalyadhama's commitment to advancing integrative therapies in cancer care
Provides a platform to discuss innovative approaches and best practices
Professor and Director, Integrative Medicine Programme, Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Centre, USA
Professor, Cancer Research Institute, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun
Director at Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India
Padmashree Awardee, Founder consultant of HCG (HealthCare Global Enterprises) and the Director of the RL Jalappa Institute of Oncology under Sri Devraj Deemed Medical University
Advisory Director, Sri Sri Institute of Advanced Research (SSIAR), Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth (VVMVP)
Professor, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
Consultant, Venu Geriatric Institute, & Ex-Senior Clinical Research Scientist, Geriatric Oncology, Department of Geriatric Medicine, AlIMS, New Delhi
Director and Professor of Yoga Therapy, Institute of Salutogenesis & Complementary Medicine (ISCM), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Puducherry, & Chairman International Centre for Yoga Education and Research, Puducherry
Vice Principal, School of Yoga Therapy, ISCM, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Puducherry
Assistant Professor, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, Bengaluru
Additional Professor and Consultant Hematologist-Oncologist in the Department of Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital
Head of Pulmonology at Jupiter Hospital and Nodal Chairman of the DR TB Centre at Sewree TB Hospital
Co-director of the Wilmot Cancer Institute Cancer Prevention and Control Research Program, co director and MPI of the University of Rochester Cancer Center (URCC) NCORP Research Base
Director of the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) at Tata Memorial Centre
Co-founder of YogaVahini-centre for specialised Yoga therapy, training and research
Pre-Conference Workshops | |
Time | Topic |
---|---|
10.00 a.m. onwards | Registration |
12.00 noon to 1.00 p.m. | Lunch |
1.30 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. | Workshop Outside-the-box designs: Using qualitative approaches in yoga research |
3.00 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. | Tea break |
3.30 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. | Workshop Yoga research: The proper choice of quantitative methods |
7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. | Dinner |
Time | Topic |
---|---|
8.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. | Maharshi Patanjali Pooja |
9.00 a.m. onwards | Registration |
9.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. | Breakfast |
10.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. | Inauguration ceremony |
11.30 a.m. to 11.45 a.m. | Tea Break |
11.45 a.m. to 12.45 p.m. | Key Note Address Yoga in cancer care: The state-of-the-art in integrative medicine |
12.45 p.m. to 1.45 p.m. | Lunch |
2.00 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. | Plenary Session #1 The scope of yoga in cancer care: Challenges and prospects of bridging ancient knowledge with modern medicine |
3.00 p.m. to 3.15 p.m. | Tea Break |
3.15 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. | Panel Discussion #1 Yoga’s potential in cancer prevention, long-term recovery and relapse prevention |
5.15 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. | Practical Workshops #1 Yoga practices in the cancer care continuum (pertinent to stages and care-seekers) (Five parallel sessions) |
7.00 p.m. to 8.00 pm. | Cultural Programme #1 Concert of Kabir folk songs |
8.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. | Dinner |
Time | Topic |
---|---|
7.00 a.m. to 8.15 a.m. | Practical Workshops #2 Yoga as a lifestyle to promote resilience during cancer survivorship (Five parallel sessions) |
8.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. | Breakfast |
09.45 a.m. to 10.45 a.m. | Plenary Session #2 The integration of evidence-based yogic methods into cancer care delivery in mainstream healthcare: Current status and realistic roadmaps |
10.45 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. | Tea break |
11.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. | Panel Discussion #2 Evidence-based yogic interventions for meeting unmet psycho-socio-spiritual needs in the cancer care continuum |
12.45 p.m. to 1.45 p.m. | Lunch |
2.00 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. | Parallel Sessions Oral paper presentations 1 (Scientific) Oral paper presentations 2 (Philosophico-literary and interdisciplinary) Cancer diaries / Short-film contest about cancer stories |
3.00 p.m. to 3.15 p.m. | Tea break |
3.15 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. | Poster presentations |
3.15 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. | Case Dased Discussions Yoga therapy and integrative medicine in cancer care |
5.15 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. | Practical Workshops #3 Yoga practices to boost immunity in cancer and chronic diseases (Five parallel sessions) |
7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. | Cultural Programme #2 Theme based Nritya Yoga |
8.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. | Dinner |
Time | Topic |
---|---|
6.30 a.m. to 7.45 a.m. | Practical Workshops #4 Pranayama practices for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers (Five parallel sessions) |
8.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. | Breakfast |
09.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. | Plenary Session #3 The evolution of integrative medicine: Yoga therapy as a game-changer in cancer care |
10.00 a.m. to 10.15 a.m. | Tea served outside the hall |
10.00 a.m. to 11.30 p.m. | Panel Discussion #3 Yogic methods and self-care management in cancer: The evolution of digital medicine |
11.45 p.m. to 1.00 p.m. | Valedictory Best paper/poster award ceremony conference resolution |
1.00 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. | Lunch |
As a curtain-raiser to the international conference, Kaivalyadhama will organise a pre-conference on “Outside-the-box designs: Using qualitative approaches in yoga research” and “Yoga research: The proper choice of quantitative methods.”
This workshop will be held on 4th December in the afternoon from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This workshop will be conducted by well-established international research faculty who have long-term expertise in using qualitative and quantitative methods in yoga and allied research.
This workshop will benefit students, doctoral and postdoctoral scholars, and research and teaching faculty, especially those working in the field of yoga, health sciences and psychology. All integrative medicine professionals such as yoga and naturopathy doctors and therapists, healthcare professionals from Ayurveda and other AYUSH disciplines, as well as medical professionals interested in making use of their patient documentation for research can also take advantage of the workshop.
This workshop is aimed at capacity building of people involved in yoga research, in turn improving the overall quality and scientific rigour of yoga research. As research methods is a core part of any course curriculum in the new Indian National Education Policy 2020, students and research scholars will find added academic value in gaining exposure to both quantitative and qualitative research methods. This workshop will up-skill the students for their research courses, projects and dissertations. Participants will also get a proper direction to search for resources to upgrade their research-oriented skills.
Takeaway: Participants will receive certificates of participation and useful study material.
To participate in the pre-conference workshop, registration for the
main conference is mandatory
** Note: If you prefer to arrange your own accommodation, there are several categories of starred hotels near the venue. Please refer to the onsite guidelines for a list of recommended hotels.
We invite abstract submissions in two tracks – one, Scientific Papers and two, Philosophical Papers.
Please submit abstracts of your original unpublished research on the broad topic of Yoga and Cancer Care: Scope, Evidence and Evolution having a maximum of 300 words by 13th October 2024.
Email for correspondence: conference@kdham.com
Email us at conference@kdham.com
Landline: +91 02114-273001
Mobile: +91 7262026878
Cancellation Policy*: You may cancel your registration at any time at your own discretion. However, once the registration fee is paid, there will be no refund under any circumstances. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further details.
Refund Policy*: Once the registration fee is paid, there will be no refund available.
Cancellation Policy: You may cancel your registration at any time at your own discretion. However, the registration fee will not be refunded under any circumstances. For additional details, please refer to the terms & conditions for registering to the conference.
Refund Policy: Once the registration fee is received, no refunds will be issued under any circumstances.
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Dr. Lorenzo Cohen is the Richard E. Haynes Distinguished Professor in Clinical Cancer Prevention and Director of the Integrative Medicine Program at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Distinguished Clinical Professor, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China.
Dr. Cohen is a founding member and past president of the international Society for Integrative Oncology. Dr. Cohen is passionate about educating others on how to prevent cancer and maintain optimal health across the lifespan. As the majority of cancers are preventable, Dr. Cohen is conducting research to demonstrate that lifestyle factors can influence cancer outcomes.
Dr. Cohen leads a team conducting NIH-funded research and delivering clinical care of integrative medicine practices such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, massage, diet, exercise, acupuncture and other strategies such as stress management, music therapy, emotional writing and more aimed at reducing the negative aspects of cancer treatment and improving quality of life and clinical outcomes.
Dr. Sat Bir Singh Khalsa, Ph.D. is Director of Research for the Kundalini Research Institute, Research Associate at the Benson Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, Research Affiliate at the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He has conducted research on yoga since 2001 and has been a practitioner of Kundalini Yoga since 1971 and is a certified teacher. His research has evaluated yoga for insomnia, stress, trauma, and anxiety, and for workplace and public school settings. He works with the International Association of Yoga Therapists as scientific director for the annual Symposium on Yoga Research and editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Yoga Therapy. He is medical editor of the Harvard Medical School Special Report Introduction to Yoga, and chief editor of the medical textbook The Principles and Practice of Yoga in Health Care.
Ms. Maxine Levy is a highly experienced British yoga teacher who conducts workshops and classes in London and internationally. Passionate about using yoga as a practical tool for mental and physical wellbeing, she emphasizes mindfulness, breath, and body. A cancer warrior herself, Maxine embraced the yogic way of life after recovering from a serious illness and transitioned from her career as an international contemporary art curator and documentary television producer to a yoga therapist. She has studied at Kaivalyadhama and under renowned yogis worldwide and now runs her own yoga studio in London, UK, where she continues to inspire and heal through yoga.
Dr. Sunil Saini, MBBS, MS (Surgery) BHU Varanasi, is a distinguished oncologist who started the first cancer clinic at Himalayan Hospital in 1992 and has been a faculty member in Surgical Oncology at the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences since 1995. He completed fellowships in Head & Neck Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and in Surgical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York. With 28 years of experience, Dr. Saini specializes in complex surgical procedures. As Professor & Head of the Department of Surgical Oncology and Director of the Cancer Research Institute at HIMS, Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) Dehradun, he has published over 100 articles. Recognized for his contributions with numerous awards, including the Uttarakhand Ratna Award, Dr. Saini continues to excel in cancer care, research, and education. Additionally, under Dr. Saini’s leadership, Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) emphasizes integrating lifestyle management in chronic illness care, offering yoga, stress management sessions, and Panchkarma services specifically designed for cancer patients.
Prof. Raghu Raghavan is a Professor of Mental Health. His work encompasses global mental health (public mental health perspectives), resilience and wellbeing, culturally appropriate mental health literacies, intellectual disabilities, and ethnic disparities. He is the Director of the Institute of social Sciences Research and Innovation, and also Mary Seacole Research Centre – an interdisciplinary research centre focussing on mental health, migration, ethnicity and culture. He is passionate about inclusive research methodologies with diverse ethnic and cultural communities for developing collective community action for mental health and wellbeing. He is an international expert in community action research using interdisciplinary participatory research methodology with creative arts-based approaches for co-creating knowledge of lived expertise and cultural mental health perspectives in the UK and in India. He holds a number of UKRI and NIHR research grants, and has published widely with over 170 publications in peer reviewed journals and digital media on the theme of mental health knowledge and awareness of diverse cultural communities in the UK and India. He presented his work of resilience and forced displacement to the Overseas Development Committee at the UK Houses of Parliament. He is a Trustee of MeHeLP India Foundation, NGO working in urban and rural India promoting culturally appropriate mental health literacies.
Dr. Praseeda Menon brings over a decade of expertise in studying yoga’s psychological aspects. She has conducted longitudinal research on how yoga enhances mental health and quality of life in people with chronic health conditions including cancer survivors. She has successfully convened 3 international conferences, organised 11 workshops, 2 international symposia, authored/co-authored impactful publications, and disseminated her work at various academic and non-academic fora. As an Assistant Professor at the G. S. College of Yoga & Cultural Synthesis, she supervises Ph.D. students at the college’s research center affiliated with Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Ramtek, Nagpur.
Dr. Raghavendra Rao Mohan earned his Bachelor’s degree in Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences from Mangalore University in 1998, graduating with second rank. He began his career at Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhan Samsthana, Bengaluru, where he progressed to assistant professor and completed research in areas such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular risk prevention, and cancer through yoga and naturopathy. His experience includes roles at prominent institutions like HCG Bangalore Institute of Oncology and collaborations with UCSF School of Medicine on yoga-related studies. Dr. Raghavendra completed his PhD in 2007 and became a Senior Scientist at Health Care Global Enterprises, leading the CAM program. With 111 international research publications and multiple awards, including the ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation Merit Award, he has significantly contributed to integrative oncology. Currently, he serves as the Director of the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, and is the editor of the Indian Journal for Yoga and Naturopathy.
Dr. Mritunjay Rathore is currently working as a Professor in the Department of Anatomy, AII India Institute of Medical science, Raipur and a certified yoga teacher, serving as the Secretary of the Indian Yoga Association (Chhattisgarh Chapter). He has more than 40 research papers on the role of yoga in disease prevention and management. A sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, Dr. Rathore specializes in the Biomechanics of Asanas, blending anatomy with yoga to create a unique, innovative approach.
His Anatomy-Based Yoga Workshops offer transformative learning for yoga students, revolutionizing traditional yoga teaching with scientific precision. Recognized for his contributions, he has been honoured with the National Dr. C. T. Thakar Award by the Indian Medical Association and the President’s Appreciation Award by the IMA Chhattisgarh Chapter.
Dr. Rathore aims to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science, inspiring a holistic approach to health and well-being through yoga.
Dr. Kodaganur S. Gopinath, MS, FAMS, FRCS (Edin) is an Indian surgical oncologist, known for his pioneering work on oncological research. He is a recipient of many awards including Dr. B. C. Roy Award, considered to be the premier medical honour in the country. The President of India recognised his services to the field of oncology, by awarding him the fourth highest civilian award, Padma Shri, in 2010.Kodaganur S. Gopinath was born in Davangere, a small town in Karnataka and had humble beginnings. He had his early schooling at St Paul’s Convent School and joined JJM Medical College, Davangere, in 1968, to secure his MBBS degree with third rank, in 1975. Higher studies in general surgery (MS) was done at the King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai. Later, he obtained FRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and FAMS from the National Academy of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. On his return from Edinburgh, Dr. Gopinath joined Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, Bangalore as a surgical oncologist where he stayed till he started the work on the Bangalore Institute of Oncology in 1989. He is the Director of Healthcare Global Enterprise (HCG), one of the world’s largest cancer care providers and the Director and Consultant Surgical Oncologist at the Bangalore Institute of Oncology and Ambuja Health Care.
Dr. Vinod Kochupillai completed her training as Medical Oncologist at University of Alabama, Birmingham, USA. She then returned to India and served at AIIMS, New Delhi, for 32 years. During her tenure at AIIMS as Professor & Head of Medical Oncology and the Head of Cancer Center, she developed full fledged Cancer Hospital and initiated DM & PhD programs in various disciplines. She has published nearly 200 research papers and has received several National and International awards/recognitions.
Post her superannuation from AIIMS, she worked as Medical Director in SRM college & Hospital at Chennai for few years; where she created the department of Medical Research. For the last 12 years she is working at International Art of Living Center located at Bangalore and is involved in research related to studying the effects of spiritual practices on body and mind.
MBBS, MD. She completed her Senior Residency and her Ph.D. studies in Genetics at AIIMS, New Delhi and joined AIIMS as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy.
Her key expertise in Teaching, Research, Training and Genetic (Human Cytogenetic and Molecular) Diagnostic services. Genetic Diagnostic and patient care services: Both cytogenetic and molecular techniques used for analysis of various genetic disorders eg – Reproductive disorders (premature ovarian failure, Recurrent spontaneous abortion, various endocrinal disorders, infertility, congenital malformations, Glaucoma, Congenital cataract, BPES, Retinoblastoma and various hematological disorders and cancers. Also offering Sperm DNA damage and seminal ROS assessment facility to couples with idiopathic infertility and cases with recurrent ART failure. Research interests: Genetics of reproductive disorders, ocular disorders and various childhood cancers. Also studying impact of lifestyle interventions on markers of aging.
Prof. Rima Dada is on the editorial board of several national and international journals and member of various scientific bodies. She has been awarded several prestigious national and international awards and has several international and national indexed papers and book chapters.
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery – MBBS, PG (Dip) Geriatric Medicine, PhD, Aging research study, Longitudinal Aging Studies, Geriatric Oncology, Palliative/Supportive care. Dr. Banerjee is a Geriatrician, Researcher, Special focus-Geriatric Oncology, Palliative/Supportive care Longitudinal Aging Research. Her special interest – Geriatric Oncology. She is Ex-Senior Clinical Research Scientist at Depart of Geriatric Medicine, AlIMS, and, Consultant, at Venu Geriatric Institute, National Representative-SIOG. She is currently Project Manager & Consultant at University of Southern California. Project – Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia(LASI-DAD)
Dr. Amritanshu Ram has been a dedicated yoga teacher since 1995, following the completion of his yoga instructor course. With an academic background in microbiology and genetics, he transitioned into a yoga career, earning both his master’s and PhD in yoga. Dr. Ram has specialized in integrating yoga with medical care for individuals with breast cancer, significantly contributing to this field through his extensive research and practice.
Dr. Ram has authored over 30 publications, primarily focusing on the effects of yoga during various phases of cancer treatment. His expertise has been shared globally through numerous workshops and teaching engagements in countries such as Japan, Turkey, Singapore, and the USA. He has also presented at several prestigious cancer and yoga conferences.
In India, Dr. Ram has played an active role in the Government of India’s World Yoga Day celebrations. He has been instrumental in developing the common yoga protocol, training yoga teachers for international deputation, and establishing the voluntary certification scheme for yoga professionals under the Quality Control of India. Additionally, he conducts stress management workshops for professionals both in India and abroad.
Dr. Ram’s academic career includes his tenure as an assistant professor at Swami Vivekananda Yoga University, where he taught and guided doctoral students in yoga. Currently, he serves as the Head of the Department for Complementary and Integrative Oncology at Health Care Global Cancer Center.
Prof. Shivarama Varambally, MBBS, MD, MAMS, D.Sc. (Yoga), is a Professor of Psychiatry and former Head of the Department of Integrative Medicine at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India. He previously worked as a consultant psychiatrist at Latrobe Regional Hospital, Australia. His areas of expertise include schizophrenia, severe mental disorders, integrative psychiatry, and the application of yoga in mental health. Prof. Varambally has authored around 300 research papers and conference presentations, including 168 PubMed-indexed peer-reviewed publications, an h-index of 35, and an i10 index of 105, with over 4,900 citations. His accolades include the Dr. SS Jayaram Award (2003), Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching from the University of Newcastle (2005), and Dr. Vimla Virmani Award (2014). He also serves as Vice-Chairperson of the Indian Psychiatric Society Taskforces on Mind-Body Medicine and Yoga and Meditation.
Yogacharya Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani is the Director of the Institute of Salutogenesis and Complementary Medicine (ISCM) and Professor of Yoga Therapy at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University, Pondicherry. He has been a key figure in numerous committees of the Ministry of AYUSH, including the Yoga Certification Board and National Board for Promotion of Yoga and Naturopathy. He is also a Consultant Resource Person for the WHO Collaborative Centre in Traditional Medicine (Yoga) and serves as Joint Secretary of the Indian Yoga Association and Vice President of the National Yogasana Sport Association.
A Gold Medallist in Medicine (MBBS), Dr. Bhavanani holds postgraduate diplomas in Family Health and Yoga. He has authored 28 books, 19 DVDs, and published over 300 papers on Yoga research. His work has earned more than 3100 citations, with an h-index of 28 and i10-index of 63.
Dr. Bhavanani is the son and successor of Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri and Yogacharini Kalaimamani Ammaji, Smt. Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani. He is also a classical Indian vocalist, percussionist, and choreographer. As an IAYT-certified Yoga Therapist, he has traveled extensively, conducting workshops, retreats, and conferences in countries such as the UK, USA, Italy, and Australia.
Enriched with over two decades of experience, Yoga Thilakam Dr. Meena Ramanathan is a Professor in Yoga Therapy & Vice Principal of School of Yoga Therapy of ISCM, SBV, Pondicherry. She is a recognized PhD Guide, IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist, recognized Yoga Chikitsa Acharya (Yoga Therapy Consultant). She strives to empower the lives of Divyanga (Children with Intellectual and physical disabilities), Silver Citizens and the Transgender Population. Dr Meena has more than 98 scientific papers, 26 abstracts, 3 books, has contributed to 6 chapters in books, 12 copyrights and 15 Compilations to her credit.
Dr. (Major) M. D. Ray is a renowned Professor of Surgical Oncology at Dr. B. R. A. IRCH, AIIMS, Delhi. With an MBBS from Kolkata, MS from Delhi, FRCS from Glasgow, and a PhD in Oncology from AIIMS, he is a highly respected educator, examiner for MCh, DNB, and PhD courses nationwide, and a key figure in cancer care.
Dr. Ray has designed four internationally adopted onco-surgical techniques and holds patents for two surgical instruments, with two more in process. He is the author of 14 surgical books, principal investigator of multiple translational and clinical research projects, and has published over 150 papers. Additionally, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of the European Journal of Clinical Oncology and is a member of ten professional societies.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Ray is an accomplished author of 22 literature books and a cultural ambassador, having represented India as an instrumental artist. He also led a medical team during the Kargil War in 1999, earning five government medals. His life philosophy, “humanity is the best religion, and honesty is the best policy,” defines his work and ethos.
Dr. Kaluram Bamniya, born on January 20, 1970, is a folk singer from Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, specializing in Kabir Bhajans and other devotional songs in the local Malwi dialect. His performances emphasize Kabir’s teachings on life and universal love. Over the years, he has performed on platforms such as Aakashwani and Doordarshan, and at various cultural events, including the Rajasthan Kabir Yatra (2017), Kabir Festival in Kathmandu (2009), and Vasantotsava in Pune (2013). He has also contributed as a music director in the film Kalichaat (2016) and performed at events like the Indore Literature Festival (2016) and the India International Center in Delhi (2017).
Dr. Bamniya has received numerous accolades, including a ‘B-high’ grade from India’s national radio broadcaster, the Tulsi Samman (2022), and Bheraji Samman (2022). He has been featured in documentaries on Kabir by Shabnam Virmani and actively participated in the Kabir Project conducted by Eklavya from 2010 to 2012. His work extends beyond performances, engaging with youth through workshops, including a Kabir Sadhana workshop at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute in 2015. Dr. Bamniya’s music promotes Kabir’s philosophy of harmony and love, reaching diverse audiences across India.
Ms. Rama Kuknur is a distinguished dancer whose artistic journey has been nurtured under the able guidance of the renowned dance luminary, Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar in Kalavardhini Institution. Since the tender age of 7, Rama today has flowered into a young accomplished exponent. She is a Gold medallist in Bharatnatyam in the M.A. course in Dance from Lalit Kala Kendra (Gurukul ),.P. Pune University.
Rama’s dance is marked for graceful and precise Nritta as well as eloquent Abhinaya with which she is able to form an immediate connection with her audiences. She also has equal command on the Nritya Ganga Bani (synthesis of Bharatnatyam and Hindustani classical). She has been a CCRT Dance Scholarship holder for 6 years. A winner of many State and National level competitions, she has won the prestigious Firodiya Competition for consecutive three years. She has designed a new learning module named “ Applied Dance” for the dance students to sharpen their other required skills and is running this course in various dance branches.
Ms. Rama Kuknur is a distinguished dancer whose artistic journey has been nurtured under the able guidance of the renowned dance luminary, Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar. Rama’s voyage through the world of dance commenced at the tender age of 7, instilled by the profound teachings of Guru Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar. Her dedication and perseverance have borne fruit, as evidenced by her graduation with a prestigious Gold medal in Bharatnatyam from the M.A. course in Dance at the esteemed Lalit Kala Kendra (Gurukul), S.P. Pune University. Her pursuit of excellence led her to earn the Nritya Alankar from the revered Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalay, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft. Rama’s artistry is characterized by the seamless harmony of two vital dance aspects – the graceful and precise Nritta, and the eloquent Abhinaya. Her profound connection with her audience is a result of her innate ability to convey emotions and stories through her captivating expressions. Notably, Rama has achieved mastery over the unique NrityaGanga Bani, a distinctive synthesis of Bharatnatyam and Hindustani classical music, a style ingeniously created by her mentor, Guru Dr. Sucheta Chapekar. Since her official stage appearance (Arangetram) in 2007, Rama has graced solo performances across various cultural hubs including Pune, Aurangabad, Nasik, Mumbai, and Banglore. Her accompaniment with Guru Dr. Sucheta Chapekar in numerous dance presentations has garnered acclaim, with a pinnacle being her participation in the revered Sawai Gandharva Music Festival 2015, a performance that earned her esteemed recognition. Rama’s pursuit of excellence extends beyond the stage, as exemplified by her recognition as a CCRT Dance Scholarship holder for six consecutive years. Her prowess as a dancer has propelled her to clinch victories in numerous State and National-level competitions, including the famous intercollegiate Firodiya Competition for three consecutive years. Furthermore, she won the Bharatnatyam choreography competition organized by the Dadar-Matunga Cultural Centre in Mumbai. Rama Kuknur has been a vital part of Kalavardhini’s performing group and has learnt and worked with Smt. Arundhati Patwardhan daughter of Dr. Sucheta Chapekar. She has participated in the esteemed “Parikramaa” dance festival organized by the Kalavardhini Charitable Trust. Rama’s talent in choreography shone brightly in the dance-drama production “Meghadoot,” an adaptation of Kalidasa’s classic literary work. This performance garnered praise from critics and experts alike. Recently, she collaborated with the Sankhya dance company for their production “And She Spoke,” marking another milestone in her artistic journey. Her dedication to improvement is evident in her enthusiastic participation in workshops led by renowned lengends such as Smt. Rama Vaidyanathan and Shri. Vaibhav Arekar. Rama has designed an innovative ‘Applied Dance’ learning module, to enrich dance students’ allied skills for enhanced efficacy. She has conducted the Applied Dance workshops at various dance institutes all over Maharashtra for more than 4 years. The realm of creativity finds its embodiment in Rama’s entrepreneurial venture ‘Kalaayan,’ a platform dedicated to the propagation of Indian classical arts in contemporary contexts. Through ‘Kalaayan,’ she has undertaken projects to introduce classical dance and allied art forms to the younger generation. Her initiative ‘Kathaayan,’ a video series narrating stories through classical dance, aims to kindle interest and knowledge among children. Rama’s artistic endeavours have transcended geographical boundaries. In 2019, she conducted a lecture-demonstration and workshop on Indian Classical dance in Sunderland, UK. Her engagement continued in 2022, when she graced the Sanskriti dance school in Sydney, conducting a workshop and enthralling performance. Rama Kuknur’s journey in Bharatnatyam is a harmonious blend of sensitivity and intellect. With an unwavering devotion to her art, she continues to tread the path of Bharatnatyam with zeal, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of Indian classical dance.
Since her first stage appearance in 2007, she has given solo presentations in Pune on a number of occasions and has also performed in Aurangabad, Nasik, and Mumbai. She has accompanied Dr.Sucheta Chapekar in various Dance performances. The most noteworthy among them is her participation in ‘Sawai Gandharva’ Music Festival 2015 along with her Guru which won her many accolades. and also a Bharatnatyam choreography Competition in Mumbai organized by Dadar – Matunga cultural center.
She is an important member of Kalavardhinisankul, a renowned group and has also performed in “Parikramaa” a renowned dance festival organized by Kalavardhini every year. Her dance choreography in Kalidasa’s ‘Meghadoot’ was recognized and acclaimed by critiques. She has been a worthy participant in workshops conducted by Rama Vaidyanathan.
She has accompanied Dr. Sucheta Chapekar in many lecture demonstrations. Along with the conventional teaching, Her approach towards dance presentation is sensitive as well as intellectual and is trading ahead on the path of Bharatnatyam journey with devotion and zeal.
Dr. Padmini Tekur is an accomplished professional in the field of yoga therapy and integrative medicine. Born in Bellary, Karnataka, she holds an M.B.B.S. from Government Medical College, Bellary, and a Ph.D. from Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana. With over a decade of experience, she has served as a Research Fellow and Assistant Lecturer in Mumbai, Chief Yoga Therapy Consultant, and currently, as an Associate Professor in the Division of Yoga and Life Sciences at SVYASA. Dr. Tekur has treated various ailments, worked on research projects related to low back pain and adolescent obesity, and guided multiple postgraduate students.
She has conducted workshops across Europe and India, focusing on yoga therapy, stress management, and corporate wellness, including notable programs for Multiple Sclerosis patients in Slovenia. An avid learner, Dr. Tekur studies Yoga and Vedanta and has received several accolades, including the Best Research Fellow award at Sir J. J. Hospital. With 27 published papers to her name, her future plans include teaching yoga therapy, conducting clinical research, and promoting yoga as a way of life.
Dr. Shripad D. Banavali is an Additional Professor and Consultant Hematologist-Oncologist in the Department of Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. He completed his MD in Internal Medicine in 1986 and underwent three years of Adult Oncology training at Tata Memorial under Dr. S. H. Advani. His research on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia earned him a Fellowship to work with Dr. Harvey Priesler in Cincinnati, USA, focusing on leukemia and CD 34+ hematogenic progenitor cells. In 1992, Dr. Banavali joined St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where he achieved Board Certification in Pediatrics and completed his Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology. After eight years in the USA, he returned to Tata Memorial Hospital, where he currently leads the Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma and Retinoblastoma section. Dr. Banavali has a strong interest in leukemia cell biology and has published over 200 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Dr. Alpa Dalal is the Head of Pulmonology at Jupiter Hospital and Nodal Chairman of the DR TB Centre at Sewree TB Hospital. She co-founded Healthbank with her two sisters to promote wellness and educate people about investing in their health. Alongside her medical career, Dr. Dalal is a yoga and holistic health expert. She completed her Master’s in Kriya Yoga in 2014 and earned a Diploma in Yoga Teacher Training in 2009.
In 2012, Dr. Dalal introduced a Yoga and Meditation program at Jupiter Hospital, which later expanded to include sound healing with Tibetan bowls for holistic rehabilitation in 2017. Her focus on holistic practices has benefitted many patients by addressing both physical and mental well-being.
She has conducted and published research on the “Effect of Kriya Yoga on Neurocardiac Physiology.” In collaboration with the Chest Research Foundation, she also researched the impact of breathing exercises, meditation, and sound therapy on patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This research was presented internationally in Barcelona in 2019, showcasing the positive effects of integrating holistic therapies into conventional treatment for chronic respiratory conditions.
Mr. Prashant V. Joshi, B.E. (EE), M.A. M.Phil. (Computer Science), E-RYT 500, YACEP, C-IAYT is an electrical engineer, computer scientist, yoga teacher, therapist and a technology/management leader for the past 35 years in the US.
Mr. Prashant has introduced Yogic-leadership-principles in the academic and corporate world at all levels of management. He has brought Yoga to the tennis courts, executive boardrooms, mental health facilities and institutions of all sizes. He is an invited motivational speaker, a published author and a community servant leader globally.
Dr. Karen M. Mustian, PhD, MS, MPH, ACSM, FSBM, is co-director of the Wilmot Cancer Institute Cancer Prevention and Control Research Program, co-director and MPI of the University of Rochester Cancer Center (URCC) NCORP Research Base, director of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) PEAK Human Performance Clinical Research Laboratory, and a tenured professor in the departments of surgery, radiation oncology, and public health sciences (URMC). She is also a faculty associate for the Susan B. Anthony Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies at the University of Rochester. Nationally, Karen is a federally appointed member of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Board of Scientific Advisors, a member of the NCI Symptom Management and Quality of Life Steering Committee and Cardiotoxicity Task Force. She is chair of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Fatigue Treatment Guidelines, and a member of the ASCO Evaluation and Management of Vulnerabilities in Older Patients Treatment Guidelines and Integrative Medicine in Oncology Treatment Guidelines Panels.
Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi, Director of the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) at Tata Memorial Centre, is a leading figure in head and neck oncology. With over 350 peer-reviewed publications, he is recognized among the top 2% of scientists globally by Stanford University. He has played a pivotal role in commissioning two cancer hospitals in Varanasi and serves as the Global Coordinator for World Head Neck Cancer Day. Dr. Chaturvedi is a prominent anti-tobacco advocate, founding the Voice of Tobacco Victims campaign, which led to significant policy changes in India. He has received numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Maxillofacial Surgeons of India in 2023. A visiting professor in 32 countries, he focuses on public health, cancer prevention, and tobacco cessation, making substantial contributions to oncology education and patient care initiatives.
Ms. Saraswathi Vasudevan has over 30 years of experience in yoga and healing. Trained under Sri TKV Desikachar for 17 years, she specializes in adapting yoga to individual needs, rooted in the teachings of Patanjali and Sri T Krishnamacharya. She holds Master’s degrees in Nutrition and Psychology and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Yoga. Saraswathi worked for nearly two decades at Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai as a teacher, consultant, and therapist, contributing to yoga research and integrating scientific perspectives into yoga therapy.
In 2010, she co-founded YogaVahini, along with her husband Sundar, focussing on specialised yoga training, therapy and research with centres in Chennai, Hyderabad and a strong presence in Delhi-NCR. Her mission is to integrate personalised yoga therapy into mainstream health care in India. Saraswathi formerly served on the Voluntary Board of Directors of Yoga Alliance, which provides strategic direction advancing the development and livelihood of yoga professionals across the world. Her work is dedicated to making yoga therapy accessible and effective for diverse populations.
Ms. Ruby Ahluwalia is a senior Bureaucrat from Indian Civil Services 1987 batch. In 2009 she was diagnosed with stage 3 metastatic cancer.
Her experience where she noticed huge gaps in cancer care space made her to form ‘Sanjeevani … Life Beyond Cancer’ – a not for profit organization in 2012 which works towards holistic cure and rehabilitation of underprivileged cancer patients, through innovative long term solutions.
Sanjeevani is the only full stack cancer care organisation which works on the whole spectrum of cancer care space Pan India. It runs free centers in 30 Govt hospitals across 15 states and has impacted more than 12 lakh patients since its inception.
Ruby herself is a recipient of *Changemakers Award* by Grand Thornton and *Exceptional Contribution Award* in governance for bureaucrats apart from so many other awards. She was recently conferred with the *Social Impact Leader Award* by Business World. She has authored two books _Fragrance of a wild soul_ and Mann Baawra…
She has recently resigned from her job of a Civil servant to work full time for underprivileged cancer patients.
Shri. Subodh Tiwari was born in the yogic atmosphere at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala. At a young age he received spiritual initiation from Swami Digambarji, the Director and Spiritual Head of Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute. In 1997 he decided to devote his life to the Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute and to serve it.
Mrs. Anjali Deshmukh, a devoted Yog Sadhak and Sevak, passionately supports individuals, including cancer patients, special children, and senior citizens from marginalized backgrounds. She leads a team dedicated to improving physical and emotional well-being through yogic practices. Ms. Anjali also guides yoga training courses at Savitribai Phule Pune University and oversees Kaivalyadhama’s Pune center for yoga-based studies.