Marking the 11th International Day of Yoga, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a mega Yoga Day event in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing that yoga is more than just exercise; it's a way of life. The event, part of the 'Yoga Sangam' initiative, saw participation from over 3 lakh people who gathered along a 26-kilometer stretch from Ramakrishna Beach to Bhogapuram, performing the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP). This year's theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," underscores the interconnectedness of individual well-being and planetary health, resonating with the Indian ethos of "Sarve Santu Niramaya" – May all be free from disease.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi highlighted yoga's universal appeal, stating that it transcends boundaries, backgrounds, age, and ability. He expressed his pride in seeing individuals from all walks of life embracing yoga, including differently-abled people studying Yoga Shastras in Braille, scientists practicing yoga in space, and youth participating in Yoga Olympiads. He also acknowledged the unique celebrations taking place on Navy ships, atop Mount Everest, and across vast seas, illustrating yoga's pervasive influence.
PM Modi reflected on yoga's global journey over the past decade, recalling the historic moment when India proposed the recognition of June 21 as International Yoga Day at the United Nations General Assembly. He noted the widespread acceptance and unifying power of yoga on the global stage, with 175 countries supporting India's proposal in a short time.
Speaking on the theme "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," Modi emphasized that it reflects the fundamental truth that all life is interconnected. He articulated that yoga awakens individuals to this interconnectedness, guiding them toward unity and harmony with the world around them. He added that yoga instills a strong sense of personal discipline, encouraging people to care for their own health and well-being, which in turn promotes harmony with nature.
In light of global unrest, PM Modi described Yoga as a "pause button that humanity needs to breathe, balance, and become whole again". Invoking the ancient Sanskrit phrase "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah" (may all be happy), he urged people to embrace this philosophy for building a peaceful society, emphasizing yoga's role in promoting peace amid growing global instability. He voiced concern over the rising violence and instability in many regions of the world, asserting that in such times, yoga provides a path toward peace.
The Prime Minister called for making Yoga a mass movement, expressing hope that the practice would help individuals achieve inner peace and contribute to global harmony. He encouraged everyone to integrate yoga into their daily routines, not just as a physical exercise but as a holistic approach to life. He envisioned this Yoga Day as the beginning of "Yoga for humanity 2.0," where inner peace becomes a global policy.
Echoing the Prime Minister's sentiments, the 11th International Day of Yoga was celebrated with various events across the globe. The Indian Missions and cultural centers organized yoga demonstrations, while the UN Headquarters in New York hosted a celebration organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN. The Indian Navy also joined the celebrations, with personnel aboard ships anchored off the Visakhapatnam coast participating in yoga sessions.
The International Day of Yoga continues to gain momentum each year, promoting yoga as a means to improve physical and mental health and foster a sense of well-being and togetherness within communities. The observance serves as a reminder of yoga's potential to unite the world and promote a more sustainable and harmonious future for all.