In a bid to spread awareness about the importance and holistic health benefits of Yoga, 21st June is celebrated as the International Yoga Day every year since 2015.
The ancient practice of Yoga that has stemmed from Indian culture, is widely known to balance the body and mind of an individual. Yoga is also highly instrumental in building strength and resilience and a fantastic tool for stress management.
The term “yoga” was coined from two Sanskrit words - “Yuj,” which means together and “Yujir”, which means “to unite”.
The United Nations' official website says, “The essence of yoga is balance - not just balance within the body or that between the mind and the body, but also balance in the human relationship with the world. Yoga emphasizes the values of mindfulness, moderation, discipline and perseverance. When applied to communities and societies, Yoga offers a path for sustainable living.”
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Theme
This year, the theme for International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Humanity.” This theme reflects the importance of yoga and how it benefits the masses in keeping safe and healthy during the outbreak of coronavirus.
The 8th edition of International Yoga Day will also witness an innovative programme ‘Guardian Ring’. The programme will include participation of enthusiasts, along with the sun’s movement, i.e. beginning from the east and marching towards the west.
History and significance
Even though the history of practising Yoga dates back to thousands of years ago, the concept of celebrating International Yoga Day was the brainchild of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who, back in September 27, 2014, first presented the idea at The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during his address.
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Taking cognisance of the widely acclaimed benefits and growing popularity of Yoga across the globe, United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11 the same year.
According to the draft resolution signed by 177 member states, “The importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.”
How it is celebrated in India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the main event of the International Day of Yoga in the backdrop of the iconic Mysuru Palace on Tuesday.
Thousands of people also participated in the mass Yoga demonstration along with the Prime Minister.
The Ayush ministry has planned to conduct yoga at 75 heritage and iconic sites with prominent India branding and has also planned to relay programmes of the event across the world “with the movement of the Sun”.
The Yoga Utsav, held as part of the World Health Day, also saw the participation of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, parliamentarians, ambassadors of various countries and Yoga exponents as they performed the Common Yoga Protocol. Officials from Embassies and High Commissions of several countries including Sweden, Hungary, Vietnam, Madagascar, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Togo, Peru, Kyrgyzstan and Zimbabwe also participated in the Yoga Utsav, ensuring global presence at the event.
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A live demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol, involving about 3,000 people, was performed by the experts from Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga under the leadership of its director Ishwar V Basavaraddi.
