Gymkhana
Professor Manikrao’s Shree Jummadada Vyayam Mandir is revered as a sanctuary for physical education, embodying the significance of a temple. Its roots trace back to 1853 when it emerged as an akhada, situated in the warasia region of Vadodara. Initially established within a modest hut, it was transformed into the magnificent institution it stands as today, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Rajratna Prof. Manikrao, a disciple of Jummadada.
Over time, the venue expanded and evolved into its present-day splendor, earning the name Professor Manikrao’s Shree Jummadadda Vyayam Mandir. This esteemed akhada not only serves as a center for physical education but also holds a small museum showcasing an array of swords. Furthermore, it holds historical significance as the place where the flag of independent India was unfurled, adding to its rich heritage.
Devoted to promoting public health encompassing both physical and mental well-being, the mandir employs traditional methods and sports as conduits for achieving holistic wellness. It has gained acclaim for excelling in various disciplines such as kho-kho, judo, and bodybuilding. Moreover, the mandir boasts additional amenities such as a skating arena, a ladies gym, and a physiotherapy center, catering to a wide range of fitness needs.
Professor Manikrao’s Shree Jummadada Vyayam Mandir stands as a testament to the dedication and vision of its founder and disciples, carrying forward the legacy of promoting physical education and overall wellness. Its transformative impact extends beyond the realm of sports and exercise, fostering a community that values the integration of mind, body, and spirit.
Swami Kuvalayananda’s formative years as a pupil of Professor Manikrao.
Professor Manikrao, a highly regarded physical culturist and a disciple of Jummadada, played a pivotal role in Swami Kuvalayananda’s journey into physical education. As a professor at the Jummadada Vyayamshala and a revered figure in the field, Professor Manikrao became Kuvalayananda’s first guru in physical education.
“Yoga has a complete message for humanity.
It has a message for the human body,
it has a message for the human mind and,
it has a message for the human soul.”
– Swami Kuvalayananda, Founder, Kaivalyadhama
Beyond his academic pursuits, Swami Kuvalayananda sought additional guidance and training under Professor Manikrao’s tutelage. From 1907 to 1910, over a span of three years, he immersed himself in rigorous training under Professor Manikrao’s guidance. During this time, Swami Kuvalayananda not only developed a high level of proficiency in physical culture but also cultivated a keen acumen for analyzing physical exercises from a physiological perspective.
Under Professor Manikrao’s mentorship, Swami Kuvalayananda honed his understanding of the intricate connection between the human body and exercise. This period of training laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the scientific exploration and analysis of yoga and its impact on physical and mental well-being.
The knowledge and insights gained during his time with Professor Manikrao set Swami Kuvalayananda on a path that would eventually lead him to establish the Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute and become a renowned figure in the scientific study of yoga. His early training under the guidance of Professor Manikrao not only equipped him with physical prowess but also fostered his analytical approach, enabling him to delve deeper into the physiological aspects of physical exercises and their effects on the human body.
Swami Kuvalayananda’s formative years as a pupil of Professor Manikrao highlight the significant influence and foundational knowledge he gained in the field of physical education. This early mentorship played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of physical culture and paved the way for his pioneering contributions to the scientific exploration of yoga.
Professor Manikrao’s Shree Jummadada Vyayam Mandir encouraging brotherhood by Ganesh festival
The Ganesh Festival at the Akhaara, initiated by Jumma Dada, aimed to foster brotherhood and unity among the people. This historical event holds significance as it was the first public Ganesha festival in the city, engaging the masses and instilling a sense of patriotism.
Aimed to foster brotherhood and unity among the people. This historical event holds significance as it was the first public Ganesha festival in the city, engaging the masses and instilling a sense of patriotism.
Jumma Dada, who established the Vyayam Mandir in the mid-19th century and registered it in 1880, was highly influential in the community. His akhaara, known for its popularity among boys and girls, became the perfect venue for the public Ganesh festival. It was Lokmanya Tilak who proposed the idea to Jumma Dada, suggesting that the festival could bring youngsters together and instill patriotism while celebrating.
In 1901, Jumma Dada installed a clay idol of Lord Ganesh in the Vyayam Mandir, a tradition that has been preserved with the same appearance and size over the years. This continuity showcases the reverence and respect for tradition in honoring Lord Ganesh.
Historian Chandrashekhar Patil highlighted the significance of Jumma Dada’s festival, emphasizing its role in promoting unity and patriotism among the people. His disciple, Prof. Manekrao, continued the tradition, ensuring its continuity and perpetuation.
The Ganesh Festival at the Akhaara became a platform for people from all walks of life to come together, celebrating and fostering a sense of togetherness. It symbolized the importance of brotherhood and unity while paying homage to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles.
Through the years, the Ganesh Festival at the Akhaara has remained a significant cultural event, preserving the original clay idol and continuing to evoke a sense of patriotism and camaraderie among its participants. It stands as a testament to the enduring traditions and values upheld by Jumma Dada and his disciples, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
