Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday led the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Kolkata, urging people to integrate yoga into their daily routines rather than confining it to a single day. Addressing a gathering at Kolkata's Red Road, Modi emphasized that yoga has evolved into a global movement connecting individuals across nations and cultures.
Yoga as a Global Movement
Modi noted that June 21, the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, has become the date of the world's largest collective celebration thanks to International Yoga Day. "The entire nation, world, seems connected. This is the power of yoga. Yoga connects everyone, brings everyone together," he said. He extended greetings to the global community, stating that from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, and from the Northeast and Bengal to Saurashtra, the entire country is filled with the energy of yoga.
Theme: Yoga for Healthy Ageing
This year's theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing,' was highlighted by Modi as relevant for all ages, not just the elderly. He argued that yoga is essential for a better future and helps maintain flexibility, energy, calmness, and disease prevention. "Our target must be to be more flexible at 40 than we were at 20, more energetic at 50 than at 30, and more resistant to lifestyle diseases at 70 than at 50," he said.
Participation and Global Reach
Modi joined thousands in performing the Common Yoga Protocol in Kolkata. Similar events were organized at nearly 2,500 locations worldwide, with over 210 Indian missions and posts participating. The prime minister commended the people of Bengal for their cleanliness drive associated with the event.
Yoga's Spiritual and Cultural Roots
Modi highlighted Bengal's spiritual heritage, referencing saints like Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda, who introduced yoga globally, and yogis like Lahiri Mahasaya. He described the collective yoga experience in Bengal as a unique spiritual moment.
Call for Daily Practice
"Let us take a pledge, we will not limit yoga to just one day. We will make yoga a part of our lives, part of our families, and we will make it a part of our coming generations," Modi urged. He stressed that yoga is not merely physical exercise but an expression of the human spirit, helping individuals remain lifelong learners of their own bodies and minds.
Background of International Yoga Day
International Yoga Day was first observed on June 21, 2015, after the United Nations General Assembly adopted India's proposal in 2014, supported by 175 member states. Modi had proposed the idea during his address to the UN General Assembly, highlighting yoga's universal appeal. The initiative has since grown into a global movement promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
