International Yoga Day Celebrations Around The World

‘Yoga is not just about physical movement; it is a way of being”. 

Every year, the 21st of June is celebrated as the international yoga day. The tradition of celebrating international yoga day originated in India, but over the years, the world has become fully aware of the plenty of benefits of Yoga to the mind, body and soul. In this article, we will witness the history of yoga in India and how the world is celebrating international yoga day around the world.

History of Yoga in India:

Yoga, a timeless practice, has deep roots in India's history. Its origins can be traced back over 5,000 years ago. Ancient Indian sages developed yoga as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment and promote holistic well-being. The earliest written records of yoga can be found in the sacred texts called the Vedas. Patanjali, an Indian sage, compiled the Yoga Sutras around 2,000 years ago, providing a systematic guide to the practice. Over the centuries, yoga evolved, with various schools and traditions emerging. Today, yoga has gained global recognition and is widely practised for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, preserving its profound connection to its Indian origins.

Indian yoga has been embraced worldwide, with people from various cultures and backgrounds recognizing its benefits. Yoga studios have emerged globally, offering diverse styles rooted in Indian traditions. It has become a popular fitness regimen, promoting physical health and mental well-being. Yoga retreats and workshops conducted by Indian masters attract participants seeking authentic experiences. The global embrace of Indian yoga highlights its universal appeal and relevance in today's world.

The theme for 9th International Yoga Day:

The theme for this year's Yoga Day is "Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," emphasizing the idea of yoga for the welfare of all. It also promotes the concept of a unified global family. 

Now, Let us see, how the world is celebrating International Yoga Day.

In various locations worldwide, Indian diplomatic missions and embassies are organizing yoga sessions to celebrate International Day of Yoga on June 21st. As ‘The Quint’ highlights it, The United States' Permanent Mission of India in New York hosts "Yoga with the Masters" at the UN Headquarters, while Germany's Indian Embassy organizes a session at the Brandenburg Gate. China, Australia, South Africa, France, Russia, Japan, Canada, and Brazil also hold events featuring yoga demonstrations and workshops at prominent locations. These sessions aim to promote the practice of yoga and its benefits, inviting people of all levels to participate and experience the art of yoga.

UN celebrates with Indian Prime Minister

Indian Prime Minister, Narender Modi, celebrates International Yoga Day with the United Nations. In 2015, Narender Modi proposed to take the Indian heritage of Yoga to the global platform in the form of an International Yoga Day celebration on 21st June. 

It has been 9 years since and the world has accepted and adapted to yoga with open arms. During a speech at the United Nations event in US, Modi said that ‘Yoga has no copyright’ and rightly so, Yoga is beyond boundaries. 

The success of the event can be marked through the news of the event marking the Guinness Book of World record for the most number of nationalities attending a yoga session. 

The yoga fever on social media:

On the occasion of International Yoga day, people have taken to social media to share their yoga poses under the hashtag ‘InternationalDayofYoga2023’ on Twitter Facebook and Instagram. Yoga enthusiasts are sharing photos, videos, and inspirational messages on social media. 

Navy personnel celebrated international yoga day by performing yoga on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier.

Yoga hour:

Although, nowadays, the majority of our actions are targeted at online audiences, for International Yoga Day, the celebration has taken from the reel life to real life. Yoga hour, where many people took an hour to practice a set of yoga poses from 8 Am to 9 Am on 21st June. 

Unity in Diversity:

The celebration of International Yoga Day in India showcased the essence of unity in diversity. Each state had its unique way of commemorating the occasion. In Haryana, the focus was on the theme "Har Ghar-Aangan Yoga," aiming to bring yoga to every village. Yoga sessions were held at district and block levels, accompanied by live speeches from the Chief Minister and Prime Minister. 

Meanwhile, in Maharashtra, women dressed in traditional attire participated in yoga demonstrations. Notably, even railway employees and passengers joined in yoga activities at Mumbai Central Station. Despite the diverse celebrations, the nation united in observing the significance of International Yoga Day, highlighting the harmony that transcends differences.

Young kids rock Yoga poses:

Young peeps from around the world showed their dedication and prowess for Yoga, flaunting their best Yoga Poses. 

Conclusion:

International Yoga Day, celebrated on June 21st, promotes yoga for holistic well-being globally. The theme "Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" emphasizes unity and welfare. Countries worldwide, including the US, Germany, China, and Australia, organize yoga sessions. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks the day with the United Nations. Social media engagement, real-life events, and children showcasing yoga poses contribute to the festive spirit. International Yoga Day continues to propagate the benefits of yoga worldwide.