Madan Kataria

What is laughter yoga?

It's a unique exercise routine, which combi­nes group laughter exercises with yoga breathing. Initially, the laughter is simulated through exercise, but later, with eye contact and group dynamics, it turns hilarious and contagious.

You started the first laughter club with just five people at a small park in Mumbai.

Yes, we started in 1995. But now, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with 6,000 laughter clubs across 72 countries.

Where all is it practised?

In addition to social laughter clubs, it's now practised in public parks, corporations, fitness centres, yoga studios, schools and universities.

What are the benefits of laughter yoga?

It's the best stress-buster. It also strengthens the immunity system, lowers blood pressure, releases endorphins to relieve you of pain and helps you overcome depression.

What about the different innovations being made in yoga now, like power yoga etc?

People have varied needs. Different forms of yoga have evolved to help people.

Why did you switch from medicine to yoga?

I was a doctor for 25 years, but when laughter yoga became popular globally, I quit. Lau­g­hter's a better medicine, without side-effects.

Those swayed by this medicine include?

British comedian John Cleese, Goldie Hawn, Sunil Dutt, Dilip Kumar.

Your pupils were on Oprah Winfrey's show?

Yes. She was all praise for this brand of yoga. Her make-up man underwent a session too and came back a different person.

You made 7,000 Muscovites laugh?

I conducted a session in November through a translator. Without a joke, I could make people laugh continuously for half an hour.

What are your future plans?

A non-academic laughter university in Bangalore. World peace through laughter.