Introduction: A Celebrated Homecoming
On September 1st, 2025, Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College, Dumri Maryadpur stood witness to a truly historic occasion — the triumphant homecoming of its illustrious alumnus, Dr. Shivam Mishra. Born in the modest village of Maroofpur in Mau district, Dr. Mishra has risen to global acclaim as a yoga educator, researcher, author, and cultural ambassador. His return was more than a ceremonial visit; it became a powerful reminder of how institutions shape lives, and how those lives in turn illuminate the institutions they emerge from.
The event carried international significance, graced by the presence of Mr. Tran Tan Son, a distinguished Vietnamese scholar and policy advocate associated with the United Nations. His collaboration with Dr. Shivam Mishra in the conference symbolized the bridging of East and Southeast Asia through the unifying discipline of yoga. Together, they underlined yoga’s capacity to transcend boundaries of language, culture, and ideology. The occasion became even more memorable when Rashtra Kunwar Singh, the visionary Founder and Owner of Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College, extended a heartfelt welcome to Dr. Mishra. In his address, he spoke with immense pride about how a humble student from the soil of Dumari Maryadpur and Maroofpur had risen to international acclaim, bringing glory not only to the institution but also to the entire district of Mau. His words were filled with admiration as he emphasized that Dr. Mishra’s achievements in the fields of yoga education, research, authorship, and cultural ambassadorship were a reflection of the values deeply embedded within the ethos of the college. He appreciated Dr. Mishra for being a beacon of discipline, perseverance, and vision, declaring that his success story shall serve as a perennial source of inspiration for generations of students. Adding to this atmosphere of reverence and pride, Block Pramukh Shubham Singh, son of Rashtra Kunwar Singh and the dynamic CEO of Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College, also delivered an eloquent address. He reflected not only on the academic brilliance of Dr. Mishra but also on his humane qualities of compassion, humility, and dedication to the upliftment of society. As a youthful leader committed to modernizing education and carrying forward his father’s legacy, Shubham Singh drew parallels between Dr. Mishra’s global outreach in yoga and the college’s aspiration to cultivate students who could contribute meaningfully on the international stage. His speech resonated deeply with the students present, many of whom saw in Dr. Mishra a living example of how dreams nurtured in the classrooms of Dumari Maryadpur could blossom into achievements that command worldwide recognition. Shubham Singh stressed that the institution’s doors would always remain open to nurturing talent that aspires to combine knowledge with social responsibility, much in the way Dr. Mishra has embodied throughout his career. The scholarly gravitas of the event was further enriched by the thoughtful words of Prof. Dr. I.P. Singh, Director of Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College, who placed Dr. Mishra’s accomplishments in the broader context of academia and cultural diplomacy. Dr. Singh highlighted how Dr. Mishra’s 15-year-long journey—spanning continents like Vietnam, Dubai, Thailand, and across Europe—was not merely a personal triumph but a collective victory for the Indian higher education system. He underscored that the college had always believed in holistic education, integrating intellectual growth with character formation, and Dr. Mishra’s trajectory was a perfect embodiment of this philosophy. In his erudite remarks, Dr. Singh stated that yoga, as promoted by Dr. Mishra, was not limited to physical postures but was a multidimensional science of life, one that addresses health, psychology, ethics, and spirituality. By situating yoga within contemporary educational discourse, Dr. Singh asserted that alumni like Dr. Mishra elevate the stature of the institution on a global platform, making the college a hub not only of local progress but of international dialogue. The confluence of voices—from the founder’s heartfelt appreciation, the youthful dynamism of the CEO and Block Pramukh, to the scholarly reflections of the Director—wove together a narrative that underscored the college’s enduring legacy. Their collective words revealed that Dr. Mishra’s homecoming was not merely a personal felicitation but a celebration of the institution’s role as a crucible of talent, leadership, and vision. This rare synthesis of tradition and modernity, local rootedness and global outreach, and educational vision and social responsibility made the event a milestone in the college’s history. It affirmed the idea that institutions are not just brick-and-mortar establishments but living ecosystems that thrive through the contributions of their students, teachers, and leaders. In honoring Dr. Mishra, the college was, in truth, honoring its own philosophy of education. Rashtra Kunwar Singh’s pride reflected the values of sacrifice and vision that laid the foundation of the institution. Shubham Singh’s speech highlighted the vigor of the new generation, which seeks to integrate technology, cultural pride, and international relevance in education. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. I.P. Singh’s academic perspective placed the entire celebration in an intellectual and philosophical framework, reminding everyone that education is not about producing degree-holders alone, but about nurturing global citizens who embody discipline, wisdom, and compassion. This trinity of leadership—the founder, the next-generation leader, and the academic director—offered a comprehensive testament to the impact Dr. Shivam Mishra has made and the symbolic importance of his return. As the applause resounded in the auditorium, it was evident that the felicitation of Dr. Mishra was a defining moment, not only in the chronicles of Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College but also in the cultural memory of Mau district. The unity of voices—local and international, generational and intellectual—testified to the fact that yoga is not merely a practice of the body but a philosophy of unity, bridging not only East and West, but also past, present, and future. Through this confluence, the college reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing leaders who embody both excellence and empathy, ensuring that its legacy continues to inspire countless more alumni who will follow the trail blazed by Dr. Shivam Mishra.
The International Conference: A Platform of Exchange
The centerpiece of the homecoming was the International Yoga Conference, hosted within the college auditorium. It drew a vibrant gathering of students, faculty, researchers, and international delegates, creating an atmosphere brimming with curiosity, pride, and anticipation. The conference was not merely an institutional event but a symbolic moment that elevated Smt. Indira Gandhi P.G. College onto the global stage, underscoring its capacity to nurture thought leaders and cultural ambassadors who could represent India to the world.
The auditorium resonated with energy as hundreds of participants from across Uttar Pradesh and beyond filled the hall, joined by international delegates from countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. The setting itself was remarkable—colorful banners displaying the ethos of yoga, scholarly posters prepared by students, and a stage adorned with traditional Indian motifs alongside global emblems. This fusion reflected the very essence of the conference: the harmonious blending of tradition and modernity, East and West, philosophy and science.
In his keynote address, Dr. Shivam Mishra spoke with clarity, passion, and authority. He began by recounting his humble beginnings in Maroofpur village and his formative years at the very college that now celebrated his achievements. His words carried a sense of nostalgia and gratitude, yet also looked toward the future. He emphasized that yoga is not confined to postures or breathing exercises, but is a complete science of life—encompassing physical health, emotional stability, ethical values, and spiritual growth. His ability to weave personal anecdotes with universal truths captivated the audience, inspiring students to see their own potential as contributors to a global dialogue.
Adding to the richness of the event, Mr. Tran Tan Son, a respected Vietnamese scholar and policy advocate associated with the United Nations, delivered a thought-provoking talk. He highlighted yoga as a form of “soft power” that could foster peace, cross-cultural dialogue, and sustainable health practices worldwide. His presence alongside Dr. Mishra symbolized the growing recognition of yoga not just as a practice, but as a diplomatic and cultural bridge between nations. Together, their joint session became a highlight of the day, reminding all present that yoga is truly a universal language that transcends boundaries of politics, geography, and religion.
Organized under the aegis of the Yog Sports Foundation, in collaboration with the college, the conference served as a global platform for intellectual exchange and practical engagement. The sessions included scholarly paper presentations, demonstrations of yogāsana, keynote lectures, cultural showcases, and felicitation ceremonies honoring yoga teachers and referees who have sustained the movement at the grassroots.
“It fills me with immense pride to stand before you today not merely as an alumnus, but as a torchbearer of the values this college instilled in me. From the classrooms of Dumri Maryadpur to the stages of Europe and Asia, the flame of yoga that was lit here continues to guide my path.” — Dr. Shivam Mishra, Keynote Address
Cultural and Scholarly Highlights
The academic core of the program was balanced with cultural vibrancy. Scholars from across India and abroad presented papers on the role of yoga in modern education systems, its therapeutic significance in mental health, and its potential as a soft-power tool in international relations.
The most celebrated session was a joint dialogue between Dr. Mishra and Mr. Tran Tan Son, who explored how yoga could strengthen cross-cultural diplomacy. They argued that in a world fragmented by geopolitical conflict, yoga offered a non-partisan, universally accessible discipline capable of nurturing peace and sustainability.
Adding color and rhythm, the college students staged cultural performances: traditional āsana choreographies, classical dance infused with yogic symbolism, and poetic recitals celebrating Indian philosophy. The audience responded with rapturous applause, affirming the deep cultural reservoir yoga embodies.
A Symbol of Legacy and Inspiration
The program culminated with a moving felicitation ceremony where Dr. Mishra was honored as the Most Distinguished Alumni. The Principal, faculty, and alumni association underscored his achievements: leading international championships, publishing scholarly works, guiding students worldwide, and serving as a living testament to the transformative power of yoga education.
Dr. Mishra, visibly emotional, expressed: “The legacy of this institution will not merely survive in its classrooms; it will thrive in the lives, visions, and achievements of its students. My duty is to ensure this legacy reaches every corner of the globe.”
Impact on Students and the Community
The conference ignited fresh inspiration among students. For many, seeing a villager from Maroofpur rise to global recognition proved that ambition grounded in discipline could overcome every obstacle. Local community leaders also reflected on how such events elevate Mau district’s reputation, turning it into a hub of educational and cultural dynamism.
Parents, educators, and villagers alike joined the celebrations, reaffirming the belief that rural roots are not limitations but foundations for greatness.
Looking Ahead
The success of the program has opened avenues for more collaborations between the college, Yog Sports Foundation, and international universities. Plans were announced for future student exchange programs, digital yoga lectures, and cultural residencies that will ensure a continuing dialogue between Dumri Maryadpur and the world.
As Dr. Mishra departed, the echoes of his words lingered: “Every return is also a new beginning. The homecoming today is not an end, but the commencement of a larger journey where this college and its alumni become active contributors to a global renaissance of yoga.”
