Digital Desk: As India gears up to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, the government has organised a series of events nationwide with the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”.
The main event, Yoga Sangam will feature a synchronized mass yoga demonstration based on the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) at over 1,00,000 locations across India in June 21 from 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the national event at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing the timeless practice of Yoga and its relevance in today’s time.
Yoga, a gift from ancient Indian tradition, has become a highly reliable method for enhancing physical and mental health.
The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which means 'to join' or 'to unite'. This symbolises the integration of mind, body and spirit. It shows a holistic approach towards self transformation and achieving the state of inner peace and well being.
Acknowledging its widespread significance, the United States declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014 through resolution of 69/131. The draft resolution that established the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by a record of 165 member states.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi first introduced this proposal in his opening remarks of the 69th session of General Assembly on September 27, 2014. The date of June 21 was then chosen as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This day symbolises a balance between nature and human well-being and holds importance in various cultures.
This directed an era of holistic health revolution where more attention was given to precautions rather than cure. Since its inaugural edition in 2015, India led the global celebrations under the sponsorship of the Ministry of AYUSH, with active support from the state governments, Indian missions abroad and UN Agencies.
An official statement of the AYUSH Ministry said highlighting the importance of the symbol of Yoga Day, the statement was about how the folded hands in the logo symbolising Yoga is the union of individual and universal consciousness representing both harmonies between mind and body and also within man and nature. The brown leaves stand for Earth, green for Nature, blue for Water, brightness for Fire, and the Sun as the source of energy and inspiration. The logo expresses peace, balance, and the core essence of Yoga.
The evolution of Yoga Day has been remarkable, starting with a moderate participation of 9.59 crore individuals in 2018, which has since expanded significantly. In 2024, approximately 24.53 crore people joined the celebrations worldwide, showcasing the event’s vast global attraction. The day has transformed into a global wellness movement, uniting millions of people across the country.
This year marks as the 11th International Day of Yoga, within the theme of "Yoga for One Earth, One Health". This specific theme showcases a crucial truth about the interrelationship of health, sustainability and the environment, aligning with India's "One Earth, One Family, One Future" vision that got highlighted during G20 presidency.
This event of International Day of Yoga 2025 will not just be a one day acknowledgement of the day but in fact it will reflect India's commitment to the holistic health, environmental harmony, and global well being of the people. With "Yoga for One Earth, One Health" guiding the principle, India continues to take a lead for the world in terms of connecting physical fitness with mindful living in this World.
The PM Yoga Awards also plays a huge part in recognising excellence in promoting and practising Yoga and showcasing its impact and benefits.
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