Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the 10th International Yoga Day celebrations at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, marking his first visit to the region since beginning his third consecutive term in office. The event, held against the picturesque backdrop of Dal Lake, emphasized the theme “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlighting yoga’s dual role in enhancing personal well-being and fostering community health.
Since its inception in 2014 following Modi’s proposal to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), International Yoga Day has been observed annually on June 21. Modi has celebrated the occasion at various iconic locations across India, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The SKICC gathering aimed to encourage grassroots participation and underscore the benefits of yoga in rural areas.
The United Nations recognizes yoga as an ancient practice originating in India, acknowledging its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. The Sanskrit word ‘yoga’ translates to ‘to join’ or ‘unite,’ symbolizing its holistic approach to well-being.
Nationwide and Global Celebrations
In India, leaders and officials engaged in diverse Yoga Day events:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in a yoga session in Ahmedabad.
- Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan led the state-level function at Lal Parade Ground.
- Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat joined festivities at the historic Purana Quila in Delhi, while another event took place at Sun Dial Lawns, Qutab Minar.
- Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and Supreme Court judges participated in celebrations as well.
Global Observance
Internationally, significant events included:
- Over 300 participants in Israel performing yoga at the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation in Tel Aviv.
- In the United States, gatherings for yoga sessions, with India’s Deputy Ambassador to the US, Sripriya Ranganathan, addressing participants.
These global celebrations underscore yoga’s increasing global resonance and its recognized benefits for holistic health and communal harmony.