BEIJING/WASHINGTON, JUN 21 (PTI): The 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was marked worldwide on Sunday with mass gatherings, cultural programmes and wellness sessions under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The annual event, observed on June 21 since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, reaffirmed yoga’s growing global appeal as a pathway to health, balance and well‑being.
From Tokyo’s historic Tsukiji Hongan‑ji Temple to Milan’s Arco della Pace, thousands of enthusiasts joined sessions led by Indian missions and local partners. In Moscow, the Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre and Moscow City Government hosted celebrations at Universitetskaya Square, drawing hundreds to practice the Common Yoga Protocol. Shanghai saw 400 participants, including diplomats and academics, with Consul General Pratik Mathur underscoring yoga as India’s gift to the world.
Japan witnessed over 2,100 participants braving rain in Tokyo, while Canberra’s Old Parliament House hosted a session led by Yoga Australia CEO Josh Pryor. In Bangladesh, the High Commission of India gathered participants of all ages, reflecting the spirit of the theme. New Zealand’s High Commission collaborated with Heartfulness and Art of Living Foundation NZ, while Finland’s Embassy organised a session at Helsinki’s Oodi Library.
London’s Strand hosted diverse traditions including Iyengar, Chi Kri, SRMD and Brahma Kumaris, showcasing yoga’s inclusivity. Kuala Lumpur’s event drew over 1,100 participants, with Senator Puan Saraswathy Kandasami highlighting yoga’s role in building a healthier society. Ankara’s India House welcomed 250 participants, while Milan’s Arco della Pace became a symbolic venue for Italy’s celebrations.
In the United States, hundreds gathered at Washington’s Lincoln Memorial, with additional events at Dupont Circle and the World Bank. The Embassy also set up an Ayurveda corner to showcase traditional wellness. Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh event drew nearly 500 participants, led by women instructors Sima Ghannam and Malak Almughira, marking a milestone in India–Saudi cultural ties. Barcelona’s Parc de Joan Miró hosted 150 participants, while Toronto saw 800 gather at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
Nepal’s Lumbini celebrations near the Eternal Peace Flame and Maya Devi Temple drew 600 participants, including Governor Krishna Bahadur Gharti Magar. Across Slovenia, Romania, Indonesia, Oman, UAE, Nigeria, Denmark, Kenya and Kazakhstan, Indian missions organised sessions, underscoring yoga’s universal relevance.
Officials and diplomats worldwide emphasised yoga’s ability to transcend boundaries, nurture physical fitness, mental resilience and holistic wellness. The celebrations highlighted yoga’s timeless role in promoting active ageing and fostering unity across cultures.
