International Yoga Day Celebrations Highlight Global Unity and Wellness
Prime Minister Modi Emphasizes Yoga for Global Peace
On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked that the world is currently facing various forms of stress, with increasing unrest and instability in many regions. He emphasized that yoga serves as a pathway to peace, transcending borders, backgrounds, ages, and abilities. Speaking to participants at the 11th International Yoga Day, he noted that this day symbolizes the beginning of an ancient practice where inner peace has become a global policy.
Andhra Pradesh Aims for Record Participation in Yoga Day
In celebration of International Yoga Day, the National Democratic Alliance government, led by the Telugu Desam Party, is striving to set multiple records in Visakhapatnam, including breaking the previous attendance record for yoga practice. Prime Minister Modi led the ceremony at RK Beach, where millions joined him in yoga exercises. The theme for this year's Yoga Day, celebrated globally, is 'One Earth, One Health,' with Andhra Pradesh aiming to host the largest yoga session to secure a spot in the Guinness World Records by gathering 500,000 participants in a single session.
Special Meditation Session at the United Nations
On the occasion of International Yoga Day, India's envoy at the United Nations highlighted a special meditation session, stating that yoga offers a peaceful way to navigate the increasing challenges of stress and mental health. Renowned physician and author Deepak Chopra led the session organized by India's permanent mission to the UN, where over 1,200 participants practiced yoga on colorful mats laid out on the North Lawn.
Mass Yoga Practice in London
In London, hundreds gathered at a prominent square in the Strand area for a collective yoga session organized by the Indian High Commission. The event was inaugurated by Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, who read a special message from King Charles III, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Yoga Day. The King emphasized that this annual celebration promotes global principles of unity, compassion, and well-being.
Yoga Gains Popularity in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, a small group gathered at a socialite bar on the outskirts of the capital before dawn to practice yoga, a rarity in the country. Led by instructor Actions Vinya, the initiative aims to improve mental health in the community, which has been affected by economic challenges. Vinya has started offering free weekend classes to those most impacted by the country's economic issues.
Sikkim Celebrates Yoga Day with Enthusiasm
In Sikkim, the 11th International Yoga Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Paljor Stadium, attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, among others. Mathur congratulated the attendees, stating that this global celebration reflects the unique identity and ancient wisdom of the country.
Leaders Participate in Yoga Events in Jharkhand
Various programs were held across Jharkhand to mark International Yoga Day, with leaders from different parties participating to promote physical and mental wellness through yoga. Health Minister Irfan Ansari joined an event at Birsa Munda Fun Park in Ranchi, emphasizing that yoga is not just a practice but a lifestyle that balances heart, soul, and mind.
Delhi Chief Minister Practices Yoga by the Yamuna
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta practiced yoga by the banks of the Yamuna River in Sonia Vihar, Northeast Delhi, accompanied by BJP MP Manoj Tiwari and cabinet colleague Kapil Mishra. She chose this location to demonstrate ongoing efforts to clean the river, which she described as a symbol of faith.
Goa's Chief Minister Advocates Daily Yoga in Schools
Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant urged school teachers to practice yoga with students for at least 15 minutes daily to promote physical and mental health. He stated that yoga is an integral part of the mission for a developed India by 2047.
Union Minister Joins Yoga Event in Indore
On International Yoga Day, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia participated in a mass yoga event at the historic Rajwada Palace in Indore. He remarked that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, yoga has created a new history on the international stage, uniting the world under the philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family).
Yoga Practice in Bengaluru
In Bengaluru, a large number of people practiced yoga in front of the prestigious Vidhana Soudha, with Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot and Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao also participating. The event was organized in line with the theme 'One Earth, One Health' as part of the central AYUSH Ministry's Yoga Sangam initiative.
Yoga Camp at Pangong Lake
On the eve of International Yoga Day, a large yoga camp was held at the picturesque banks of Pangong Lake, attended by around 1,000 participants, including military personnel, students, and locals. Organized by the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre in collaboration with the Indian Army and the Ladakh administration, the camp aimed to raise awareness about the role of yoga in maintaining physical and mental health.
ITBP Conducts Yoga at High Altitude
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) practiced yoga at border posts located at altitudes of 14,100 to 14,200 feet along the shores of Pangong Tso. Images showed ITBP officers engaging in yoga, conveying the message that yoga is not only a gift from India to the world but also a pathway to a healthier, more harmonious, and sustainable future for all.