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Associated Press
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Emmy-Nominated filmmaker and happy life yoga speaker Tirlok Malik Lights Up New York with Laughter and Joy
New York - July 2, 2025 - International Yoga Day 2025 was marked with uplifting energy, deep spiritual resonance, and a dash of humor as Emmy-nominated filmmaker and wellness advocate Tirlok Malik brought smiles to faces worldwide with his signature 'Happy Life Yoga' session at Central Park, New York. The event was 'UPLIFTNY2025,' an inspiring celebration of International Yoga Day hosted by philanthropist Meera Gandhi and her foundation, 'The Giving Back Foundation'. Held on June 21, the event blended yoga, mindfulness, laughter, and storytelling — all elements that have come to define Malik's unique approach to wellness. With the backdrop of Central Park's summer bloom, participants from various walks of life gathered in person and online, connecting across continents through yoga and joy. On June 22, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) hosted its Annual Global Virtual Celebration, continuing its tradition of organizing large-scale online gatherings since the pandemic. Now in its fourth consecutive year of going digital, the GOPIO event has evolved into a truly global affair, connecting Indian-origin professionals, leaders, and changemakers across time zones. Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, served as the Chief Guest for this virtual event, which GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and President Prakash Shah led. Participants included individuals from diverse regions — North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia — and professions ranging from scientists and authors to entrepreneurs, as well as a Nobel Peace Prize nominee. Tirlok Malik participated in the event as both a wellness advocate and filmmaker, sharing insights into how joy and positive thinking can serve as bridges between cultures. 'Whether it's yoga or storytelling, the aim is to touch lives and spread happiness,' he said during the virtual gathering. On the cinematic front, Malik was also present at The New York Indian Film Festival, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey as the oldest and most respected Indian film festival in North America. Tirlok Malik, who has attended every edition of the festival, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Aseem Chhabra, the festival director, and the entire team for consistently organizing this enriching event for New Yorkers. He also praised the festival as a vibrant space where audiences can enjoy the premieres of thought-provoking, artistic films and engage with members of the film fraternity in an atmosphere brimming with creative energy. Among the showcased films was Tanvi the Great, a moving feature directed by the legendary Anupam Kher, which received heartfelt appreciation for its powerful performances and universal theme. There was also Mr Anupam Kher's friend, a Hollywood and New York's most loved actor, Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, Malik's short film Hello Dad — directed by Neha Lohia and co-starring Swiss actress Ankita Makwana — continues to gain critical acclaim. The touching father-daughter story, filmed in New York, has been honored with the prestigious Environmental Media Association (EMA) Green Seal Award. This recognition is reserved for productions that adhere to eco-friendly filming practices while delivering compelling narratives. From breathing joy into yoga mats in Central Park to sparking emotional introspection through film, Tirlok Malik continues to inspire across mediums and platforms. His work — grounded in pleasure, wellness, and consciousness — reminds us that happiness isn't a luxury, but a daily practice. Media Contact Company Name: Apple Productions inc Contact Person: Tirlok Malik Email: Send Email City: New York State: New York Country: United States Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Emmy-Nominated filmmaker and happy life yoga speaker Tirlok Malik Lights Up New York with Laughter and Joy

Associated Press
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Meera Gandhi hosts 'UPLIFTNY 2025' to celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21, in Central Park, New York.
The Giving Back Foundation is a nonprofit organization promoting mental health, spiritual well-being, and community connection. Founded by Meera Gandhi, the foundation works globally to foster compassion, healing, and positive social change. New York - June 11, 2025 - The day will feature an uplifting combination of Yoga, Meditation, Live Music, and Spiritual Discussions, uniting New Yorkers from all backgrounds in a collective celebration of mental peace and well-being. A light lunch will be provided, free of cost, to all registered guests. In Central Park, New York, join over 5,000 participants for UPLIFTNY25, an inspiring day of yoga, meditation, healing, and joyful music. This free event, presented by The Giving Back Foundation in collaboration with the Mayor's Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation, promises to be a transformative experience dedicated to promoting mental wellness and community connection. This year's International Yoga Day, aligned with the Summer Solstice, is a powerful reminder of the need to nurture mental wellness and spiritual balance in an ever-changing world. On the occasion of International Yoga Day 2025, Meera Gandhi, philanthropist and Founder of the Giving Back Foundation, will host UPLIFTNY25, a transformative, day-long celebration of wellness and community, on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Featured performers and guides include: Bhushan Deodhar, Darryl Gaines, Daybreaker, Inga Benson, Madame Gandhi, Miriam Belov, and 'Happy Life Yoga' speaker and founder and emmy-nominated filmmaker and actor Tirlok Malik. With a diverse blend of talent and insight, UPLIFTNY25 promises to be an energizing and significant experience, offering practical tools for healing and self-awareness. The event theme is 'How to Uplift Ourselves in a Challenging World?' Participants will explore this question through collective practices and interactive sessions. The event is supported by wellness advocates, cultural voices, and New York-based community partners, building a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern life. 'We are honored to bring this incredible event to the heart of New York City,' says Meera Gandhi, Founder of The Giving Back Foundation. 'UPLIFTNY25 is more than just an event, it's a movement. We're coming together to uplift each other's mental health and spiritual well-being, celebrating the power of community and the beauty of connection.' Event Details areas follows: Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025, Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Check-in starts at 9:30 AM) Location: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park, NYC Admission: FREE – Advance registration is required. Lunch: Light, vegetarian lunch served complimentary. Reserve your spot today at: Media Contact Company Name: Apple Productions inc Contact Person: Tirlok Malik Email: Send Email City: New York State: New York Country: United States Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Meera Gandhi hosts 'UPLIFTNY 2025" to celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21, in Central Park, New York.