Mysuru: Mysuru has etched its name in the Guinness World Records (GWR) for holding the largest yoga lesson involving 55,506 participants. The event was held on International Yoga Day on June 21 at Mysuru Race Course at the foot of Chamundi Hills.

The GWR records management team has confirmed to deputy commissioner D Randeep that the district administration’s application for the largest yoga lesson has been successful and Mysuru district administration now holds the GWR title.

Mysuru surpassed the event held under the guidance of yoga guru Baba Ramdev at GMDC ground in Ahmedabad on the same day. BJP president Amit Shat, Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani and a host of ministers had taken part in Ramdev’s gathering, which had 54,522 participants. Mysuru stole the lead with 984 participants.

DC Randeep said GWR had announced the record on its official website. 19 asanas in over 2 hours. The third international yoga day was inaugurated by district minister HC Mahadevappa. Alongside thousands of participants, several ministers and leaders from across political parties performed 19 asanas and pranayama from 7am to 9.10am.

News of the record was cheered by yoga enthusiasts who have flocked to the city. An “ancient world has come back to life. Proud of it as Indian”, said Nilesh Patel from Toronto. “It is an excellent achievement,” said Gulab Tewani from Bhopal. “Shiva ki jai,” said Luis de Araujo, a professor at Yoga Raja Shala.