The Indian Embassy in the United States organized a yoga session at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, on June 19, 2026, ahead of the International Day of Yoga celebrated on June 21. India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, took part in the event alongside a large gathering, underscoring yoga's increasing global acceptance as a practice for health and wellness.
Pre-Event Celebrations
The session was part of a series of pre-event festivities leading up to the International Day of Yoga, which has been observed annually on June 21 since the United Nations recognized it in 2014. Participants performed various yoga postures and breathing exercises at the iconic site.
UN Headquarters Event
Earlier that day, the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations hosted the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the UN Headquarters in New York, drawing approximately 800 yoga enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. In a post on X, the Indian Mission stated: "#IndiaAtUN @IndiaUNNewYork organised the 12th #InternationalDayofYoga at @UN Headquarters today. PR @AmbHarishP highlighted the growing global reach of #Yoga at the event. UNSG @antonioguterres delivered a special message on the occasion."
Program Highlights
The event featured sessions based on the Common Yoga Protocol and an advanced yoga demonstration by the Art of Living Foundation. Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, recognized as the first female and non-Indian Siddha Master, also graced the occasion. According to the Mission, nearly 800 participants actively engaged in the celebrations, reflecting yoga's expanding appeal across cultures and communities worldwide.
Key Speakers
India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish P, highlighted yoga's growing international influence and its role in promoting holistic well-being. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a special message marking the occasion.
Broader Series of Events
The celebration at the UN Headquarters is part of a broader series of events being held across the United States ahead of the International Day of Yoga on June 21. This year's theme is "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," focusing on yoga's role in enhancing physical mobility, mental wellness, and healthy longevity.
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