India Aims to Introduce Yogasana as an Olympic Sport by 2036
India's Initiative for Yogasana in the Olympics
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that as India gears up to host the 2036 Olympics, the government is committed to making Yogasana an Olympic sport for the first time.
This statement was made during the launch of the inaugural World Yogasana Championship, scheduled from June 4 to 8, which will see participation from over 500 athletes representing 75 countries across 12 different events. The event will take place in Ahmedabad.
According to a press release from the Union Sports Ministry, Mandaviya emphasized, 'As the birthplace of yoga prepares to host the Olympic Games in 2036, we will strive to establish Yogasana as an Olympic sport on the global stage.'
Yoga: An Invaluable Global Heritage
While addressing attendees before the championship, Mandaviya remarked, 'Yoga is a priceless gift from India to the world, originating 5,000 years ago.'
He underscored the importance of yoga, stating, 'Yoga empowers both the body and mind,' and noted its evolution into a globally recognized sport.
Mandaviya pointed out that yoga is now embraced worldwide, becoming an integral part of many cultures. He highlighted that the knowledge and traditions of yoga are deeply rooted in every corner of India.
He further stated, 'Yogasana is not only a means to achieve physical and mental wellness but also a growing source of livelihood and a significant representation of India's soft power globally.'
Launching the World Yogasana Championship
The Minister described the championship as a pivotal opportunity for India to project its soft power on the international stage. The event's launch included the unveiling of a creative logo, trophy, official jersey, and the mascot, Veer the lion, symbolizing the rise of Yogasana as a contemporary global sport rooted in India's rich heritage.
The championship's identity embodies athletic excellence, global unity, youth aspirations, and India's leadership in wellness and sports, merging tradition with the vision of a developed India.
Supported by various ministries and organizations, including the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Ayush, and the Sports Authority of India, the World Yogasana Championship aims to place Yogasana firmly on the global sports map.
The competition will feature various categories such as Traditional Yogasana, Artistic Yogasana, Rhythmic Pairs, and Team Events, with participants competing in junior, youth, and elite divisions under internationally recognized rules and judging criteria.
This championship is seen as a significant step towards the long-term goal of including Yogasana in major international multi-sport events and ultimately achieving Olympic recognition.