The Russian Embassy in New Delhi hosted a Yoga session on Saturday, ahead of the International Yoga Day celebrations on Sunday. Senior diplomats expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for popularizing yoga globally and highlighted its immense popularity in Russia.
Diplomats Praise Yoga's Global Reach
Yulia Aryaeva, Counsellor (Culture) at the Russian Embassy, told ANI, 'We are very happy to host the celebration because Yoga is India's gift to the world. It is extremely popular in Russia. In many cities, people are practicing Yoga and are coming to India to know more about it.'
Diana Alipova, spouse of Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov, said, 'I love practicing Yoga because it gives harmony of body and mind. I am grateful to Prime Minister Modi for making this practice international and establishing the International Yoga Day.' She noted the popularity of yoga in Moscow and St Petersburg and added, 'It is really beneficial for everyone's health. I believe everyone should practice Yoga every day for at least 15 minutes.'
Indian Leaders Highlight Bilateral Ties
Former Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi participated in the event. She praised the Russian Embassy's initiative and said, 'Russia and India are historic friends.' Lekhi emphasized that yoga is India's gift and legacy to the world. She recalled that soon after coming to power, PM Modi prioritized highlighting yoga's significance globally. 'Prime Minister Narendra Modi is himself a practitioner and telling others to join in was fantastic. When countries come together to celebrate positivity and consider international heritage, that is fantastic for India.'
Yoga Trainer's Perspective
Yoga Trainer Pragya Singh from Life Yoga expressed pride that yoga originated from India. 'As a practitioner, I would say if you are not practicing yoga, you are really missing out on all the fun and joy.' She urged people to dedicate time to yoga to enhance various aspects of life.
Background of International Yoga Day
The United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014, following PM Modi's proposal during his address at the 69th session of the UN General Assembly on September 27, 2014. This initiative ushered in a holistic health revolution focusing on prevention. Since 2015, India has led global celebrations under the Ministry of AYUSH, with support from state governments, Indian missions abroad, and UN agencies.
2026 marks the 12th International Yoga Day. This year's theme is 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing,' highlighting yoga's role in helping people remain active, independent, and engaged across all age groups.
