Jaishankar and Norway Envoy Participate in Yoga Session at Nehru Park
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar performed yoga alongside Norway's Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener, at Nehru Park in New Delhi on Sunday, June 21, marking the 12th annual International Day of Yoga. The event highlighted the growing global appeal of yoga and its role in fostering international camaraderie.
Prime Minister Modi Leads National Celebrations in Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga at Kolkata's Red Road, performing yoga asanas with thousands of participants. He emphasized that yoga has the power to unite the entire world, reinforcing the practice's universal appeal.
Theme: 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'
This year's theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing,' underscores the global shift toward healthy and active living across all ages. With rising non-communicable diseases and lifestyle-related health concerns, the focus is moving from merely extending lifespan to enhancing health span, quality of life, and overall well-being.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Highlights Yoga's Global Reach
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres extended greetings on the occasion, noting yoga's journey from ancient India to becoming a universal practice. In a post on X, he stated, 'From its deep roots in ancient India, yoga has become truly universal, helping millions of people of all faiths & cultures find calm, build strength & live with purpose. It teaches us mindfulness, respect & care for ourselves, for our planet & for one another. On this Yoga Day, let's extend that care to the older members of our human family & build a world where every generation can lead a healthy life. Namaste!'
Indian Embassies Worldwide Celebrate International Yoga Day
Indian diplomatic missions across the globe also celebrated the day. The Embassy of India in Japan noted that yoga supports the journey toward harmony of mind and body, posting on X: 'Rooted in ancient wisdom and beloved around the world, yoga continues to support the journey toward harmony of mind and body to this day.'
The Consulate General of India in Shanghai hosted the 12th edition of the International Day of Yoga at the historic Bund, with a view of the Pearl TV Tower. Consul General Pratik Mathur shared on X: '12th IDY in China! Magic on the Bund in Shanghai... a major landmark which is a testament to age old historic links between India and China.' The Consulate added that the location provided a perfect backdrop for the conclusion of a 90-day burst of activities built around IDY 2026, which began after Prime Minister Modi's clarion call in Mann ki Baat.
