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International Yoga Day 2024: Andaman & Nicobar Command Preforms Yoga Underwater- Watch Here

June 21, 2024, 11:04 pm

In a unique celebration of International Yoga Day, divers from the Andaman & Nicobar Command showcased their skills by performing underwater yoga in the pristine waters of the Emerald Isles. This extraordinary event featured a series of asanas and mudras, emphasizing the holistic benefits of yoga for strength, health, and wellness.

The underwater yoga session aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of yoga as a path to achieving overall well-being. By taking their practice beneath the waves, the divers highlighted the versatility and universal appeal of yoga, even in challenging environments.

A video released by the Andaman & Nicobar Command captures the serene yet powerful display of underwater yoga, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the tranquil beauty of the Emerald Isles. This initiative not only promotes the importance of physical and mental health but also underscores the adaptability of yoga as a practice for all.

#WATCH | Andaman & Nicobar Command divers performed underwater Yoga in the Emerald Isles. They highlighted Asanas and Mudras, promoting PM’s vision of Yoga for Strength, Health, and Wellness: Andaman & Nicobar Command #InternationaYogaDay

(Video source: Andaman & Nicobar… pic.twitter.com/8YJl6XGpzR

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2024

As the world observes International Yoga Day, the Andaman & Nicobar Command’s underwater yoga performance stands out as a testament to the enduring and transformative power of yoga.

International Yoga Day 2024: From Srinagar To Times Square; How Is It Celebrated Globally

June 21, 2024, 1:41 pm

On December 11, 2014, the United Nations designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, celebrated worldwide every year since. This day sees millions around the globe, from serene mountain retreats to bustling city squares, participating in special classes, workshops, and talks to raise awareness about yoga’s benefits. The theme for 2024, marking the event’s 10th anniversary, is “Yoga for self and society.”

Here’s a glimpse of the International Day of Yoga 2024 celebrations from various parts of India and the world:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads celebrations in Srinagar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led celebrations in Srinagar, performing yoga at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre. He encouraged people to make yoga a part of their daily lives, highlighting its benefits. Modi mentioned that India’s proposal for International Yoga Day received support from 177 nations and was seen taking selfies with people at Dal Lake after a yoga session.

Indian Army celebrates International Day Of Yoga

The Indian Army celebrated at various locations, including Leh, eastern Ladakh, and the Muguthang Sub Sector in North Sikkim, at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) also promoted yoga in areas along the Himalayan ranges of the Indo-China border.

Indian Navy celebrates Yoga Day

The Indian Navy celebrated aboard warships such as INS Vikramaditya, INS Tarkash, and INS Teg.

President Droupadi Murmu

President Droupadi Murmu performed yoga at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, emphasizing yoga’s role in physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Sand art by Sudarsan Pattnaik in Puri, Odisha

Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik created a sand mural in Puri, Odisha, depicting a human figure in a meditative pose with the message “Yoga Day.” He also illustrated the twelve steps of “Surya Namaskar” below the figure.

UP Governor Anandiben Patel and CM Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations at the Governor’s House, performing various asanas with hundreds of people. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami joined residents and tourists for a yoga session at Parvati Sarovar, Adi Kailash.

New York celebrates International Yoga Day 2024 in Times Square

In New York, celebrations took place in Times Square, featuring seven yoga sessions that attracted about 10,000 participants from various nationalities.

School students perform Pangong Tso

A video surfaced that showed school students in Ladakh performing yoga against the backdrop of the Pangong Tso lake.

Since 2015, Prime Minister Modi has led IDY celebrations at several iconic locations, including the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

‘Yoga Is India’s Unique Gift To Humanity’: President Draupadi Murmu

June 21, 2024, 11:21 am

President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings to the global community, particularly to Indian citizens, on International Day of Yoga. She emphasized yoga’s importance for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. On this 10th International Day of Yoga, President Murmu participated in yoga exercises.

“Greetings to the entire global community, especially the fellow citizens of India on International Yoga Day! Yoga is India’s unique gift to humanity. In view of rising lifestyle-related problems, Yoga has become far more important today. Yoga is a way to physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Let us resolve to adopt yoga as an integral part of our day-to-day living,” President Murmu shared on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also encouraged the nation to incorporate yoga into their daily routines. Celebrating the 10th International Day of Yoga, PM Modi performed yoga at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

“As we mark the 10th International Day of Yoga, I urge everyone to make it a part of their daily lives. Yoga fosters strength, good health and wellness. Wonderful to join this year’s programme in Srinagar,” the Prime Minister posted on X.

He acknowledged the global participation in yoga and mentioned the emerging “Yoga economy” observed over the past decade.

At the Srinagar event, PM Modi highlighted the overwhelming support for India’s proposal to the United Nations to celebrate International Yoga Day, with 177 nations backing it.

“Today, from the land of Kashmir, I congratulate everyone around the world on International Yoga Day! Ten years ago, I proposed the celebration of International Yoga Day at the United Nations. India’s proposal was supported by 177 nations, which is a record in itself. In 2015, on Kartavyapath in Delhi, 35,000 people performed Yogasanas together,” he stated.

“On International Yoga Day, I have had the privilege of coming to Kashmir, the land of yoga and meditation. In Srinagar, we are feeling the power that yoga gives us. I congratulate all the people of the country and those doing Yoga in every corner of the world on International Yoga Day from the land of Kashmir,” PM Modi added.

PM Modi noted that the past decade has seen a significant transformation in the perception of yoga, contributing to a thriving “Yoga economy.”

“In the last 10 years, the expansion of Yoga has changed the perception related to Yoga. Today, the world is seeing a new Yoga economy going forward. From Rishikesh and Kashi to Kerala, we can witness a new trend of Yoga Tourism emerging in India. People from all over the world are coming to India in pursuit of learning authentic yoga. Accordingly, sectors related to hospitality, tourism, apparel, etc. are booming from the huge inflow of people. This is creating new avenues for employment opportunities for youth,” PM Modi said.

This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” underscores the crucial role of yoga in enhancing both personal well-being and societal harmony.

Since 2015, PM Modi has led the International Day of Yoga celebrations at several iconic locations, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

JP Nadda Lauds PM Modi As 10th International Day Of Yoga Is Celebrated Globally

June 21, 2024, 11:03 am

On the 10th International Day of Yoga, Union Health Minister JP Nadda commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for elevating yoga’s global status, noting that the practice is now worldwide. He urged everyone to integrate yoga into their daily routines for better health.

“I got the opportunity to perform Yoga with Yoga enthusiasts at Yamuna Sports Complex, on the occasion of International Day of Yoga. PM Modi initiated International Yoga Day in the UN General Assembly for which he got support from different countries,” Nadda told reporters.

He highlighted PM Modi’s role in spreading yoga globally: “Under the leadership of PM Modi, the practice of Yoga which was earlier limited to our country has reached every corner of the world. Everybody is becoming a part of it. I want to appeal to everyone to include yoga in their regular lives to remain healthy,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi spearheaded the celebrations from the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. This year’s event, themed “Yoga for Self and Society,” focuses on yoga’s significant impact on individual health and societal harmony. The celebration aims to unite thousands in yoga practice, promoting wellness worldwide.

Several Union Ministers and leaders participated in yoga sessions across the country. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju remarked on yoga’s global acceptance, calling it “India’s gift to the world.” He noted, “On 10th International Yoga Day, a new record is being created as people in large numbers are practicing Yoga…The world has accepted Yoga…Yoga is India’s gift to the world…”

Union Minister BL Verma praised PM Modi’s international yoga advocacy and encouraged people to incorporate yoga into their daily lives. He stated, “International Yoga Day is being celebrated all over the world…PM Modi promoted yoga internationally…I urge people of the nation to practice yoga daily…By practicing yoga in Srinagar, PM Modi is sending a message to the world that we should practice and take yoga forward.”

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi emphasized yoga’s global acceptance since 2014 under PM Modi’s leadership. He observed, “2014 onwards, under the leadership of PM Modi, International Yoga Day has started and in various countries, yoga is being practiced…Today, PM Modi will be practicing yoga in Srinagar…The people of Kashmir are also showing their interest in practicing yoga…”

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also participated in a yoga event in the national capital. Sharing his personal routine, he stated, “It is an incredible, peace-giving experience to perform yoga today. Yoga is a science to lead a healthy, happy, and wholesome life. Yoga not only makes the body ailment-free but also makes the mind healthy and sharp, it is a medium through which the human soul moves towards God. This is an incredible practice India has given to the world.”

Expressing gratitude to PM Modi, he added, “I want to express heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as under his leadership yoga has reached every corner of the globe. On the occasion of International Yoga Day, I want to appeal to everyone to practice yoga not just today but every day. Make it an integral part of life. Human beings have unlimited possibilities and to know them yoga must be practiced. I practice yoga every day.”

Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Mansukh Mandaviya also participated in various yoga events. Since 2015, PM Modi has led International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at iconic locations such as Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and even the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This year’s events will span the nation, including a notable “Yoga for Space” event with ISRO centers and units practicing the common Yoga Protocol. Embassies and Indian Missions worldwide will join in, showcasing yoga’s extensive influence.

What Did Union Minister Kumaraswamy Say About PM Modi’s Global Yoga Promotion?

June 21, 2024, 7:56 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Today. This event highlights the global impact and significance of Yoga, a discipline that promotes health and wellness.

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy congratulated Prime Minister Modi for “showcasing India to the world through yoga” as the nation marks this significant day. Kumaraswamy, along with Minister of State Bhupati Raju Srinivas Verma, participated in a yoga event at BHEL township in Noida. In a post on X, Kumaraswamy expressed his wishes to fellow Indians and emphasized the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life for holistic well-being. He praised PM Modi’s efforts in gaining international recognition for yoga through the United Nations in 2014.

Other Union Ministers, including Pralhad Joshi, BL Verma, Kiren Rijiju, and JP Nadda, also engaged in yoga sessions at various events across the national capital. BSF officers and jawans joined the celebrations, performing yoga at the Last Post of the International Border in RS Pura Sector.

Prime Minister Modi’s participation underscores the profound impact of yoga on young minds and bodies. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” emphasizes the role of yoga in fostering both individual well-being and societal harmony. Since 2015, PM Modi has led IDY celebrations at iconic locations such as Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

This year’s IDY celebrations will span across the nation, including a notable event titled “Yoga for Space,” where all ISRO centres and units will practice the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP). Embassies and Indian Missions abroad will also participate, reflecting the widespread influence and adoption of yoga globally.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of Ayush, highlighted the journey of IDY, emphasizing its role in promoting health, social values, and community spirit. The ‘Whole of Government’ approach to IDY includes coordinated efforts across various departments and active participation from state governments and union territories. The National Ayush Mission team is organizing events nationwide, demonstrating yoga’s impact on holistic health.

In Delhi, the Ministry of Ayush has partnered with NDMC (New Delhi Municipal Corporation), ASI (Archaeological Survey of India), and DDA (Delhi Development Authority) to organize mass yoga events. To engage the masses, the Ministry of Ayush has launched contests and activities, including the “Yoga with Family” Video Contest in partnership with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on the MyGov and MyBharat platforms, encouraging families worldwide to showcase the joy of yoga and reinforce family bonds.

The celebrations underscore yoga’s global significance, promoting a healthier, more harmonious society through this ancient practice.

PM Modi To Lead 10th International Day Of Yoga Celebrations In Srinagar Today

June 21, 2024, 7:37 am

PM Modi will spearhead the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday. This year’s event emphasizes the profound impact of yoga on young minds and bodies, aiming to unite thousands in promoting health and wellness globally.

The Prime Minister will address the gathering and participate in the Common Yoga Protocol session, underscoring yoga’s significance in nurturing physical, mental, and spiritual growth. He will be joined by notable figures, including the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayush, Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav. Over 7,000 people from various walks of life will gather on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar to mark the special occasion.

Since 2015, PM Modi has led International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at various iconic locations, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and even the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlights yoga’s vital role in fostering individual well-being and societal harmony.

In a letter to all Gram Pradhans, Prime Minister Modi urged grassroots leaders to make holistic health a people-led movement by spreading awareness about yoga and millet. This year’s celebrations will span the nation, with a notable event titled “Yoga for Space,” where all ISRO centers and units will participate in the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP). The Gaganyaan project team is also scheduled to join the practice on June 21. Additionally, IDY observance at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari is in full swing.

Globally, Indian Embassies and Missions will join the celebrations, reflecting yoga’s widespread influence. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of Ayush, highlighted the journey of IDY in a recent gathering, emphasizing its role in promoting health, social values, and a sense of community.

The ‘Whole of Government’ approach to IDY celebrations includes coordinated efforts across various government departments and active participation from state governments and union territories. The National Ayush Mission team is organizing events nationwide, showcasing yoga’s impact on holistic health.

In Delhi, the Ministry of Ayush has partnered with the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC), Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to organize mass yoga events. To engage the masses, the Ministry of Ayush has launched several contests and activities, including the “Yoga with Family” Video Contest in partnership with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on the MyGov and MyBharat platforms. This contest encourages families worldwide to showcase the joy of yoga and reinforce family bonds, with submissions due by June 30, 2024.

As the world prepares to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga, the event in Srinagar stands as a testament to yoga’s enduring legacy and its power to bring people together for a healthier, more harmonious future.

International Yoga Day 2024: PM Modi Visits J&K, Srinagar For Mega Event

June 20, 2024, 7:21 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi starts his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, heading to Srinagar. He’ll mark International Yoga Day on June 21 in Srinagar and unveil 80+ development projects in the Union Territory.

The PM said in an X post, “Leaving for Srinagar, where I will be taking part in two programs. Later this evening, I will be at the ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’ program, which focuses on youth-led development. Key projects worth over Rs. 1500 crore will be inaugurated, or their foundation stones will be laid. These works cover infrastructure, water supply, education, and more. Tomorrow morning, I will take part in the Yoga Day program in Srinagar.”

Leaving for Srinagar, where I will be taking part in two programmes. Later this evening, I will be at the ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’ programme, which focuses on youth-led development. Key projects worth over Rs. 1500 crore will be inaugurated or their foundation stones…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 20, 2024

Modi’s first visit after starting his third term in office will mark a historic occasion as over 7,000 people from various backgrounds gather to celebrate the 10th International Yoga Day at Dal Lake.

Here are the top updates from PM Modi’s visit:

Security Update

Security preps are in full swing in Srinagar after recent terror attacks in J&K. Mock drills by the Special Protection Group cover routes to SKICC.

“Srinagar city has been declared as “Temporary Red Zone” for the operation of drones and quadcopters as per provisions of Rule 24(2) of Drone Rules, 2021 with immediate effect,” the Srinagar police said in a post on X. “All unauthorized drone operations in the Red Zone are liable to being penalized as per relevant provisions of Drone Rules, 2021. As responsible citizens, your cooperation is solicited in this regard,” it added.

International Yoga Day

The PM is set to join the 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC in Srinagar at 6:30 am on June 21. He’ll speak to the attendees and join the yoga session, highlighting yoga’s positive effects on youth worldwide, and promoting health and unity through the celebration.

The theme for this year, “Yoga for Self and Society,” emphasizes its dual impact on promoting both individual and communal wellness. The occasion aims to promote widespread participation at the grassroots level and the dissemination of yoga practices in rural regions.

Empowering Youth

Prime Minister Modi to join ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’ event at SKICC in Srinagar before Yoga Day celebrations, marking a crucial moment for the region and offering inspiration to young achievers, per PMO statement.

During the event, he will inspect stalls and interact with young achievers from Jammu and Kashmir. He will also distribute appointment letters to over 2,000 newly appointed government employees during his visit, according to the statement.

84 Major Developmental Projects

PM Modi will inaugurate 84 major projects worth over Rs 1,500 crore, covering road infrastructure, water supply, and higher education in J&K. This includes launching the JKCIP and laying the foundation stone for various development initiatives.

The PM will lay the foundation stone for projects including the Chenani-Patnitop-Nashri Section improvement, Industrial Estates development, and construction of six government degree colleges. Additionally, he will launch the Rs 1,800 crore Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors (JKCIP) Project, benefiting 15 lakh beneficiaries across 20 districts in Jammu and Kashmir.

International Yoga Day 2024: Tracing Back To The History, Significance And Themes Over The Decade

June 20, 2024, 11:17 am

International Yoga Day 2024 will commemorate it’s 10th edition with the theme ‘Yoga For Self And Society’ on June 21.

The International Day of Yoga is a day in recognition of Yoga, that is celebrated across the world annually on June 21, following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014.

Brief History

The initiative for ‘International Yoga Day‘ was proposed by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2014 address to the UN as he cited the physical and mental health benefits of ‘yoga’ in daily life. The resolution garnered widespread global backing, with 177 countries co-sponsoring it in the United Nations General Assembly, where it was passed unanimously.

As a result, the first International Yoga Day was successfully celebrated on June 21, 2015, in various cities around the world, including New York, Paris, Beijing, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and New Delhi.

A Look-Around On International Yoga Day Themes

Theme for International Yoga Day 2015: Yoga For Harmony And Peace

The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated globally on June 21, 2015. The main event took place at Rajpath in New Delhi, India, where a significant crowd, including PM Narendra Modi and dignitaries from various countries, practiced 21 asanas (yoga postures) for 35 minutes. This event in Delhi set two Guinness world records: one for the largest yoga class, with 35,985 participants, and another for the highest number of participating nationalities (84 nations).

Theme for International Yoga Day 2016: Yoga For The Achievement Of The Sustainable Development Goals

The Indian government aimed to build on the enthusiasm generated by the 2015 International Day of Yoga by encouraging increased youth participation in the celebrations for the current year. The ministry arranged an event named “The National Event of Mass Yoga Demonstration” in Chandigarh, which was attended by the Indian Prime Minister.

Renowned yogis, including Sadhguru and Baba Ramdev, also conducted large-scale yoga sessions on the designated day.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2017: Yoga For Health

In Lucknow, India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined 51,000 participants in a yoga event and practiced yoga himself. From New York to China, significant events occurred worldwide, with thousands of participants coming together to practice yoga collectively.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2018: Yoga For Peace

The celebration in Dehradun took place at the Forest Research Institute, where Prime Minister Modi led around 50,000 volunteers to commemorate the fourth anniversary of International Yoga Day.

In Kota, Rajasthan, over 100,000 individuals congregated for a yoga session, setting a Guinness World Record for the city.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2019: Yoga For Heart

The fifth International Yoga Day was enthusiastically celebrated in multiple regions of India. However, the primary event occurred in Ranchi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a gathering of more than 40,000 attendees.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2020: Yoga At Home And Yoga With The Family

On the occasion, the Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov sent a video message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2021: Yoga For Wellness

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian mission to the United Nations opted for an online celebration on UN WebTV instead of holding in-person yoga events.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2022: Yoga For Humanity

The 8th International Yoga Day was commemorated across different regions of India, with the main event taking place in Mysore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a gathering of more than 15,000 attendees at the Mysore Palace Premises for this occasion.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2023: Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

On International Yoga Day 2023, a historic yoga event took place at the U.N. Headquarters in New York, led by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The event was attended by top UN officials and notable individuals from around the world, including the current President of the UN General Assembly, Csaba Korosi, Hollywood actor Richard Gere, and the Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, among others.

Theme for International Yoga Day 2024: Yoga For Self And Society

International Yoga Day 2024 will be celebrated on June 21 with the aim of expanding yoga into a global movement that highlights women’s well-being and advocates for global health and peace.

The International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations will take place at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar on June 21 and will be led by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Significance Of International Yoga Day 2024

International Yoga Day acts as a cultural bridge, promoting peace and harmony. It highlights the benefits of yoga for physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual growth.

Key Benefits:

Global Awareness: Raises awareness about yoga’s benefits and encourages a healthier lifestyle worldwide.
Holistic Well-being: Promotes yoga as a holistic approach to fitness, mental health, and spiritual growth for all ages and abilities.
Unity: Brings people of diverse cultures together, fostering unity through yoga.
Mental Health: Stress-relieving benefits make yoga crucial in today’s world.
Yoga for Self and Society: Spreads yoga as a global movement, addressing social health issues.
Cultural Heritage: Honours yoga’s Indian origins, serving as soft power in diplomacy.

So, roll out your yoga mats and get ready to witness the 10th edition of the International Day of Yoga!

International Yoga Day 2024: Indian Embassy Hosts Yoga Session Ahead Of Yoga Day In Washington DC

June 20, 2024, 10:52 am

The Indian Embassy in the US held a Yoga session in Washington, DC ahead of the 10th International Day of Yoga. The event, which took place on Thursday at The Wharf in Washington, DC, saw a large turnout.

Sripriya Ranganathan, the Deputy Ambassador at the Indian Embassy in the US, highlighted India’s role in promoting yoga globally. “The role that India has played in bringing this centre stage, taking it to the UN and making this a day in which we come together to recognize the power of yoga and to recognize how yoga can add value to our lives and how yoga is very contemporary,” she said.

The International Day of Yoga has been celebrated worldwide on June 21 every year since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014.

Ranganathan emphasized the ancient roots of yoga, stating, “It’s an ancient tradition. It’s a wellness tradition that goes back 5000, 6000 years, but it remains so current.”

She also noted the growing appreciation for yoga and its integration into families, communities, and institutions. “There is far more of an appreciation of the value of yoga. It’s become really a part of every family, every community, every institution to start thinking about how yoga can bring value to their lives and to help the members of that community and their families in dealing with the challenges that we face in the world today,” she told ANI.

Ranganathan observed that young people and students are increasingly embracing yoga as a holistic tradition. “I see wherever I go in the US that young people, students, particularly kids in college…are very involved in this. Initially, they come in in terms of seeing this as a physical fitness tradition. But I think they move on very quickly to see what a wholesome and holistic tradition,” she said.

This year, the embassy partnered with various organizations across the US to make the celebrations almost a month-long event. “We just tied up and partnered with so many organizations around the country. This is what we are doing in DC. What our consulates are doing all around the country. We have really been able to reach out so much more and make this almost a month-long celebration. It’s not just the day, but it’s the entire month in which we are bringing yoga centre stage in terms of our outreach to the community,” Ranganathan added.

One participant, Michael, expressed his excitement about the 10th International Day of Yoga and the community aspect of the celebration. “I think yoga really signifies bringing your body and mind at peace with the world around you. And as we heard earlier today, I think that that is something that is most needed today. And so again, happy to be here to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Yoga. And hopefully, we can use this as a way to bring about more peace and harmony between us,” Michael said.

This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” underscores the dual role of yoga in enhancing both individual and societal well-being.

International Yoga Day 2024: Why We Celebrate Yoga Day On 21st of June- Origin And Significance

June 19, 2024, 6:20 pm

June 21 marks International Yoga Day 2024, a global observance aimed at honoring the ancient practice that originated in India. The term “yoga,” derived from Sanskrit words meaning “together” and “to unite,” symbolizes harmony and unity. This day serves to raise awareness about the profound benefits of yoga, promoting both physical fitness and mental well-being.

Each year, International Yoga Day is celebrated under a specific theme, with 2024 focusing on “Yoga for Self and Society” This theme highlights yoga’s role in enhancing the physical and mental health of women worldwide.

The choice of June 21 for International Yoga Day is significant as it coincides with the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere, known as the longest day of the year. This day holds cultural and spiritual significance across many traditions, aligning perfectly with the holistic principles of yoga.

The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized International Yoga Day in 2014, following a proposal by India’s then-permanent representative, Asoke Mukerji. The initiative gained immense support with 175 co-sponsors, reflecting the global endorsement of yoga’s universal appeal and benefits.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the UN General Assembly advocating for a dedicated day to celebrate yoga played a pivotal role in garnering international support. Within a remarkable 90 days of submission, the resolution was adopted, leading to the inaugural celebration of International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015.

For practitioners, yoga transcends mere physical exercise, embodying a holistic lifestyle that fosters balance and harmony. The UN recognizes yoga as a symbol of mindfulness, moderation, discipline, and perseverance, offering a path towards sustainable living and global well-being.

As the world commemorates International Yoga Day 2024, it serves as a reminder of the timeless wisdom and universal appeal of yoga, promoting unity and wellness for individuals and communities worldwide.