Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday declared that yoga has become the world’s largest community celebration, bringing together people across countries and cultures. Speaking at the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Kolkata, Modi highlighted that June 21, the longest day on Earth, is now globally recognized as a day dedicated to yoga.
Yoga as a Unifying Force
“June 21, which marks the longest day on Earth, has now become the largest community celebration day because of yoga. Yoga brings people together. I congratulate the people of the world on this occasion,” Modi said. The event marked the 12th edition of the International Day of Yoga, which was first proposed by India and adopted by the United Nations in 2014.
The Prime Minister also congratulated the people of Kolkata for their dedication to the ‘Swachhata Se Swagat’ initiative, which emphasizes cleanliness and hospitality.
Theme: Yoga for Healthy Ageing
Referring to this year’s theme, ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’, Modi emphasized that the ancient practice plays a crucial role in promoting physical health, mental well-being, and active ageing, thereby improving the quality of life. “Yoga is not just physical exercise. It is not restricted to any age group. It is an expression of the human spirit,” he said.
Modi stressed the importance of ensuring that advancing age does not diminish human potential. “When we speak of yoga for healthy ageing, we can work to ensure that age does not reduce human potential,” he added.
Flexibility and Energy Goals
The Prime Minister set ambitious personal targets for practitioners: “Our target is to be more flexible at 40 than we were at 20. We aim to be more energetic at 50 than we were at 30.” He urged people not to restrict yoga to particular occasions but to integrate it into daily life.
Global Recognition
The International Day of Yoga, celebrated annually on June 21, has gained worldwide acceptance. According to the United Nations, over 190 countries participate in yoga-related events. The theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’ aligns with the World Health Organization’s focus on healthy ageing, promoting physical and mental wellness across all age groups.
Modi’s address in Kolkata underscored yoga’s role in fostering global unity and individual well-being, reinforcing its status as a transformative practice beyond mere physical exercise.
