Basit Zargar/Srinagar

Ahead of the International Yoga Day (June 21), a group of watersports enthusiasts practiced yoga on floating platforms in Pokhribal, a water channel that helps in draining the waters of the Dal Lake in Srinagar.

For the onlookers the scene of young people doing Yoga asnas in the water and on platforms in the fresh morning air, the calm waters surrounded by greenery, and Mountain View as a backdrop was fascinating.

Well-known Water sports instructor Bilquis Mir led this special event. She led participants through various yoga asanas and breathing exercises. The program's goal wasn't just to promote yoga, but also to bring people closer to nature and raise awareness about the importance of lake conservation.

#WATCH | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir: Speaking ahead of International Yoga Day, water sports athlete, coach, and international referee Bilquis Mir says, “The floating yoga session held today at Pokhribal Lake—a first for us—aimed to convey that yoga isn't limited to gardens or… https://t.co/m0SAe5h2sW pic.twitter.com/gfFVH37Tf9

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

This floating yoga session at Pokhribal Lake is considered a new initiative to promote Kashmir as a wellness and adventure tourism destination.

Yoga instructors believe that yoga practised in nature has a more profound effect. The tranquil atmosphere calms the mind. The gentle movement of the water waves helps with concentration. This is why participants described the experience as different and more effective than a typical yoga session.

#WATCH | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir: Water sports athletes practised floating yoga at Pokhribal Lake ahead of International Yoga Day. The aqua yoga session showcased balance and mindfulness on water. The event was held as part of preparations for the June 21 celebrations. pic.twitter.com/yietYUaoBa

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

Many participants said it was their first time practicingwater yoga. Initially, it felt challenging, but within a few minutes, both body and mind found balance. They found the experience incredibly helpful in reducing stress and achieving mental peace.

The highlight of the program was that participants had to perform yoga poses while maintaining balance. Performing yoga while standing on a floating platform is not easy. It requires control of both body and mind. This made the session a test of not only physical fitness but also mental concentration.

Bilquis Mir said that yoga and water both symbolise balance, peace, and harmony. When combined, they create a unique experience. She explained that the purpose of this event is to inspire young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and to convey the message that fitness isn't limited to the gym. Health can also be improved by being surrounded by nature.

#WATCH | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir: Speaking ahead of International Yoga Day, water sports athlete, coach, and international referee Bilquis Mir says, “The floating yoga session held today at Pokhribal Lake—a first for us—aimed to convey that yoga isn't limited to gardens or… https://t.co/m0SAe5h2sW pic.twitter.com/gfFVH37Tf9

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026

He said that Kashmir's lakes should not be seen only as tourist destinations. They can also be developed as centres for health, sports, and community activities. This will boost local tourism and strengthen the public's sense of environmental protection.

International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on June 21st. Various events are being organised across the country to mark the occasion. This floating yoga session in Srinagar is considered unique and different from those events. Photos and videos of it are being shared widely on social media.

Experts believe that yoga is not just about physical exercise. It is also an important tool for mental health and emotional balance. Amidst the increasing stress, anxiety, and health problems of modern lifestyles, yoga's importance is steadily increasing. Consequently, yoga programs held in nature are attracting more people.

Those involved in the tourism sector say such events could create a new identity for Kashmir. Adventure tourism, trekking, skiing, and water sports are already popular in the valley. Activities like floating yoga could give a new dimension to wellness tourism.

Many participants said after the event that they felt more energised and refreshed. They said that doing yoga in the middle of the lake felt like a spiritual experience. This time spent in the lap of nature will be remembered for a long time.

Locals have also welcomed this initiative, believing it will project a positive image of Kashmir to the world and help raise awareness about health and fitness among young people.

Organisers hope that floating yoga will become a regular activity in the future. If this happens, it could become a centre of attraction not only for locals but also for tourists from India and abroad. Held at Pokhribal Lake, this event proved to be much more than a simple yoga session.

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It conveyed the message that combining yoga, nature, and environmental conservation can bring about positive change in society. This unique experiment, held in the tranquil valleys of Kashmir, could become a new trend in the years to come.

Pictures and text by Basit Zargar