Yoga, rooted in India’s timeless heritage, has emerged as a global beacon of health, harmony, and holistic well-being. Since the declaration of International Day of Yoga (IDY) in 2015, India has led a worldwide movement, uniting people across continents in the practice of yoga each year on June 21.
Now in its 11th year, the celebration has grown exponentially—from bustling cities to serene villages, and from iconic global landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, and Sydney Opera House to the Himalayan foothills and Ganga ghats. Millions of people, regardless of age, faith, or nationality, participate in mass yoga sessions, reaffirming yoga’s universal appeal.
Speaking at the national celebration this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Yoga is not just about flexibility or postures. It is India’s message of inner strength, unity, and balance in a fast-changing world.”
Yoga today is practiced in over 190 countries. Its benefits—ranging from physical fitness and emotional stability to mental clarity and spiritual growth—have been widely recognized by health experts, therapists, and world leaders alike. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted yoga’s role in stress relief, immunity building, and mental health management.
India continues to be the spiritual and instructional hub of yoga. Institutions like the Ministry of AYUSH, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, and various global yoga schools have played a crucial role in making yoga accessible, especially to younger generations and marginalized communities.
With roots in ancient scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, yoga’s message is deeply philosophical yet practical. Over the past 11 years, it has become more than a wellness trend—it is a lifestyle movement, reminding humanity of the importance of self-awareness, discipline, and equanimity.
- Celebrated since: 2015
- Practiced in: 190+ countries
- Key benefits: Physical health, mental peace, inner balance
- UN Recognition: Declared June 21 as International Day of Yoga in 2014
- Cultural legacy: 5,000+ years old practice rooted in Indian tradition
Yoga’s journey from ancient India to modern global consciousness is not just a success story—it’s a symbol of India’s enduring contribution to world peace and human potential.
