Social Actions
Every Drop Counts
Acting for the Common Good
At Surya, contributing in a positive way to society is an integral part of our mission. We consider it essential to take concrete action when people are in need, to support communities, and to stand up for values of dignity, justice, and compassion. In a world facing many challenges, every action rooted in awareness and kindness makes a difference.
Karma Yoga
This spirit of engagement is inspired by the yogic tradition of karma yoga—the yoga of selfless action. Practicing karma yoga means serving others without expecting personal gain, simply for the benefit of the whole. At Surya, we bring this principle to life through social initiatives and solidarity-based actions. Serving others becomes a practice of humility, presence, and connection, reinforcing our inner journey while actively contributing to a more humane and conscious world.
Our Social Actions
India (ongoing) - Support of schoolchildren
For many years, Surya World has supported a rural school in Tamil Nadu, South India, where many of the pupils are orphans. Donations are raised through solidarity yoga and meditation classes, helping to provide essential resources for the children. During our group trips to India, team members regularly visit the school to offer direct support, participating in daily activities and helping with food distribution. This ongoing commitment is a meaningful way to share, connect, and express solidarity through both action and presence.
France (ongoing) - Annual winter donations
Each December, the Surya Centers in Paris, Montreal, Auvergne, and Tours organize a call for donations in support of local social initiatives. In Montreal, warm clothing and Christmas presents are collected for people living on the streets, in partnership with Pact de Rue. In Tours, donations support Utopia 56 and La Table de Jeanne-Marie. In Paris, food items are gathered for Restos du Cœur, and in Auvergne, Christmas boxes are prepared for the association Anef 03-63.
Thailand 2024 - Fundraising for flood victimes
In October 2024, severe flooding struck the regions around Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, leaving many people with nothing overnight. After hearing about the situation from a local contact, Surya yoga teachers in Canada and France quickly mobilized. Within days, we organized classes and events to raise awareness and collect funds for those affected. Thanks to our international network, we were able to deliver this support quickly and directly to the local population.
Ukraine 2022 - Support for refugees
In spring 2022, Surya World launched a small-scale solidarity initiative to help Ukrainians by providing emergency relief assistance and logistical support. Working with local partners, municipalities and existing aid arrangements in Poland and France, we are providing transportation and housing for refugees who wish to be resettled in France.
Surya World’s initiative is part of a global dynamic of spontaneous gathering of citizens and organizations of good will. It aims to reinforce the humanitarian aid deployed in the emergency by the European countries by bringing quick and efficient support to Ukrainian inhabitants and nationals.
Nepal 2015 - Support earthquake victims
In April 2015, following the devastating earthquake in Nepal, Surya World launched a call for donations to support the victims, particularly in remote rural areas that were severely affected and cut off from essential infrastructure. Thanks to our local contacts, we were able to respond quickly and efficiently, delivering aid directly to those in need. This collective effort demonstrated the strength of international solidarity and the power of our community to mobilize and bring meaningful help in times of crisis.
