International Day of Yoga

International Day of Yoga is celebrated on June 21 every year. It was declared unanimously by the United Nations General Assembly on December 11, 2014 — after the call given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to UNGA on September 27 that year. The idea of observing an International Day of Yoga (IDY), was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014.

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. It is an opportunity to unite people from all backgrounds, cultures, and religions in a spirit of harmony and peace. Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Yoga is one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophical traditions. It is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’ which means to join or unite. The goal of yoga is to attain physical, mental, and spiritual liberation. The practice of yoga is said to bring physical and mental calmness, improved balance, increased flexibility, inner strength, and heightened self-awareness.

To commemorate the day, various activities like mass yoga demonstrations, art competitions, lectures and seminars on yoga, etc., are organized all over the world to promote awareness about the importance and benefits of yoga. Several events are organized across India and abroad on this day which not only promote yoga but also pay tribute to its origin.

International Day of Yoga provides a platform for people from different cultural backgrounds to come together and promote the principles of peace, friendship, understanding, acceptance and harmony. Every year leaders from various countries issue messages and declare the International Day of Yoga as a special day of observance worldwide.