India is an assault on the senses, challenging you with its extremes, prompting you to contemplate who you are and where you stand in the world. In ashrams across the country, Najiah Ramlee uncovers what it takes to be a yogi here.
![The Cradle of Yoga](https://magarticles.magzter.com/articles/1558/190564/58061dec9a068/The-Cradle-of-Yoga.jpg)
INDIA, THE LARGEST DEMOCRACY
In the world is also the world’s second largest nation with 1.25 billion people calling it home. Seemingly homogeneous at first glance, this nation of 29 states and 7 union territories is actually so diverse it is almost shocking. Nearly all of the world’s religions are represented here, while 22 different languages are officially recognised with many others being spoken across the country. India has had its share of foreign rule as well that spans over 1,100 years, with the British claiming 300 and the Mughals 800. This hotbed of various influences allowed for the shaping of Indian society as we see it today.
There is no concrete history of the birth of yoga – many of the sacred texts and teachings were transmitted orally and were considered secret for many years. While the Indus-Sarasvati civilisation of northern India is widely credited with yoga’s beginnings over 5,000 years ago, some historians believe yoga may have started as early as ten millennia ago.
Pre-classical yoga was developed by the Brahmans and Rishis (mystic seers); they documented their practices and beliefs in the Upanishads, of which the most renowned is the Bhagavad-Gîtâ, composed around 500 BC. The Upanishads taught that excellence could only be achieved through the sacrifice of the ego via self-knowledge, action (karma yoga) and wisdom (jnana yoga). In classical yoga, there is an “eight limbed path” containing the steps and stages towards obtaining Samadhi or enlightenment.
Denne historien er fra October - November 2016-utgaven av escape! Asia.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra October - November 2016-utgaven av escape! Asia.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
![Explore New Zealand's 'Bay of Plenty' In 4 Days](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/160166/570d7737bb753/Explore-New-Zealands-Bay-of-Plenty-In-4-Days.jpg)
Explore New Zealand's 'Bay of Plenty' In 4 Days
While the towering peaks and hulking fjords of the South Island are legendary, the North Island has equally impressive scenic beauty, especially in the fabulously named Bay of Plenty
![Velassaru Maldives](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/190564/58061ce023857/crp_Velassaru-Maldives.jpg)
Velassaru Maldives
A Lavish Option for That Much-needed Respite.
![The Cradle of Yoga](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/190564/58061dec9a068/crp_The-Cradle-of-Yoga.jpg)
The Cradle of Yoga
India is an assault on the senses, challenging you with its extremes, prompting you to contemplate who you are and where you stand in the world. In ashrams across the country, Najiah Ramlee uncovers what it takes to be a yogi here.
![Buon viaggo with Costa Cruises](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/190564/580620751d872/crp_Buon-viaggo-with-Costa-Cruises.jpg)
Buon viaggo with Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises Marks 10th Anniversary in Asia.
![Re-discovering the heart of Myanmar with Sedona Hotel Yangon](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/190564/580621624d0a3/crp_Re-discovering-the-heart-of-Myanmar-with-Sedona-Hotel-Yangon.jpg)
Re-discovering the heart of Myanmar with Sedona Hotel Yangon
An Up-and-coming Destination for Leisure and Business Travellers, Myanmar – Formerly Known as Burma – Is Making Waves as a Hub for Tourists and Businesses.
![Leather crafting: kindred art to watchmaking](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/180437/57b48e09d9489/Leather-crafting-kindred-art-to-watchmaking_1471604036.jpg)
Leather crafting: kindred art to watchmaking
Claude Bernard presents its third singaporean artisan partner, xie hui of stone for gold.
![Inaya Putri Bali, Indonesia](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/180437/57b48f9f01086/Inaya-Putri-Bali-Indonesia_1471604675.jpg)
Inaya Putri Bali, Indonesia
Capturing the Spirit of Bali through affordable luxury.
![Japan's Seasonal Carousel](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/200171/5863923300e43/crp_Japans-Seasonal-Carousel.jpg)
Japan's Seasonal Carousel
A treasure trove of historical culture and foods, Niigata Prefecture is bound to entice you with its awe-inspiring architecture, world renowned manufacturing and peaceful natural sanctuary.
![Wellness Wonderland](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/180437/57b48cc5c2275/Wellness-Wonderland_1471603129.jpg)
Wellness Wonderland
ITC Grand Bharat, a part of the luxury collection brand, pampers with bespoke experiences and indulgent hospitality.
![Your Luxury Holiday Property On Thailand](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/1558/200171/58639a65913ad/crp_Your-Luxury-Holiday-Property-On-Thailand.jpg)
Your Luxury Holiday Property On Thailand
Ani Villas Thailand offers a home away from home experience - Truly.