A Doctor Who Prescribed Laughter to the World
Dr. Madan Kataria isn't your usual medical doctor. In 1995, what began as a simple idea to spread more laughter in a Mumbai park turned into a global wellness revolution. Today, his unique Laughter Yoga movement is practiced in over 120 countries
all rooted in one belief:
Laughter truly is the best medicine.
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Invite NowMedical Doctor Turned Wellness Visionary
Dr. Madan Kataria is globally recognized not just for creating Laughter Yoga, but for pioneering a whole new way of looking at mental and emotional wellness. Often referred to as the “Guru of Giggling,” he has spent over two decades inspiring doctors, teachers, corporate leaders, and caregivers to incorporate laughter into their daily lives.
His work blends science with spirituality — merging evidence-based health benefits of laughter with ancient yogic breathing techniques. What sets him apart is his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making laughter accessible, inclusive, and transformational.
Through his books, trainings, and global sessions, Dr. Kataria continues to be a guiding force in the modern wellness movement — reminding the world that joy is not just an emotion, but a practice.
Founded by Dr. Kataria in 1995
Pioneered a Worldwide Movement
Happy-ness Spread Across Millions
Dr. Madan Kataria
Medical Doctor, Global Speaker, Founder of Laughter Yoga.
In His Own Words
Recognized by Media Around the Globe
Dr. Kataria’s laughter movement has been covered by the world’s leading news, wellness, and documentary platforms — reaching millions and inspiring global change.
“Featured in a segment on global wellness movements”
“Recognized by BBC for pioneering laughter therapy”
“Interviewed on the mental health benefits of laughter”
“Covered in TIME as a global wellness innovator”
“Dubbed ‘Guru of Giggling’ by the London Times”
“Japanese national TV documented training sessions”
“Appeared in coverage on alternative therapies”
“Starred in the global documentary Laughology (2009)”
“Covered for laughter’s impact on stress relief”
“Featured in a segment on global wellness movements”
“Recognized by BBC for pioneering laughter therapy”
“Interviewed on the mental health benefits of laughter”
“Covered in TIME as a global wellness innovator”
“Dubbed ‘Guru of Giggling’ by the London Times”
“Japanese national TV documented training sessions”
“Appeared in coverage on alternative therapies”
“Starred in the global documentary Laughology (2009)”
“Covered for laughter’s impact on stress relief”
Voices That Believe in Laughter
Read how Dr. Kataria’s joyful method is changing hearts, minds, and lives across the globe.
Oprah Winfrey
Talk show host, television producer
“Laughter yoga is a perfect way to laugh and get exercise at the same time. It approaches laughter as a body exercise so it’s easy to laugh even if you’re depressed or in a bad mood. . . . I’ve tried it, and it works.”
Andrew Weil, M.D.
Clinical Professor of Internal Medicin
“I can’t think of any other mind-body technique that has caught on this way. I told [the] American Senate Committee during a hearing about healthcare reform that laughter yoga could help lower American healthcare costs.”
Daniel H. Pink
New York Times bestselling author of A Whole New Mind
“Laughter yoga exemplifies a form of ’right-brain thinking’ that managers should promote.”
John Cleese
Actor and Comedian
“Laughter connects you with people. It’s almost impossible to maintain any kind of distance or any sense of social hierarchy when you’re just howling with laughter. Laughter is a force for democracy.”
A Personal Message from Dr. Kataria
Namaste, As a medical doctor, I once believed medicine alone was the key to healing. But over time, I saw that many patients struggled with stress, loneliness, and disconnection — things medicine couldn't always fix.
In 1995, I read a study on how laughter reduces stress and boosts immunity. That simple idea sparked a thought: what if laughter could be a daily practice?
I gathered a few friends in a Mumbai park to laugh — not at jokes, just to laugh. It felt strange at first, but soon we felt lighter and more alive. That moment became the start of Laughter Yoga, now practiced in over 120 countries.
Over 25 years, I’ve seen people from all walks of life heal and reconnect through laughter. It’s a choice we can make — no special reason needed.
So whether you're here to heal, connect, or just smile more, welcome. All you need is a willingness to try.
Laughter is your birthright. Let’s share it together.
With love and laughter,
Dr. Madan Kataria
Founder of Laughter Yoga
