Eight athletes from Lovely Professional University (LPU) emerged as the championship's most successful university contingent, winning 12 gold medals at the inaugural World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad. Their exceptional performance accounted for 12% of India's record 102 gold medals, helping the nation finish atop the medal standings with 114 medals.
The championship brought together 522 athletes from 79 countries, marking a significant milestone for Yogasana as a globally competitive sport. Behind LPU's stellar win at the World Championship were a series of exceptional individual performances.
Abhishek won two gold medals in Artistic Pair and Artistic Group, while Nitin Tanaji Pawale secured two gold medals in Back bending and Traditional Group. Abhay Mishra claimed two gold medals in Rhythmic Pair Men and Artistic Group, and Periwal Alka Kanhaiyalal earned two gold medals in Back Bending Individual and Traditional Group.
Abhay Burman won gold in Artistic Pair, Dev in Artistic Group, Praveen Pathak in Traditional Group, and Sapna Pal in Back Bending Traditional Group, reflecting the depth of talent that LPU brought to India's title winning campaign. Congratulating the athletes, Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Founder Chancellor of Lovely Professional University and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), stated, "Yoga is one of India's greatest contributions to the world, embodying discipline, balance and holistic well being.
It is a matter of immense pride that LPU students have excelled on the highest international stage in a discipline that reflects our civilizational heritage. At LPU, we believe education must nurture excellence in every sphere, academics, research, sports and values.
These achievements reaffirm our commitment to developing globally competitive individuals who remain deeply connected to India's rich traditions while bringing honour to the nation." Over the years, LPU has built a distinguished legacy in sports, with its athletes representing India at the Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, World Championships, FISU World University Games, and several other prestigious international competitions.
This success reflects the university's sustained investment in Olympic grade sports infrastructure, accomplished coaches, performance focused training, generous sports scholarships, and a holistic ecosystem that enables talented athletes to excel in sports while pursuing academic excellence.