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Every year on June 21, International Yoga Day is celebrated to honour the physical and spiritual benefits that yoga has bestowed upon the global community. This significant occasion highlights not only the widespread engagement in yoga as a valuable form of exercise and wellness, but also the profound connection it establishes between the body, mind, and spirit—a timeless practice that has persisted for centuries. Countless individuals worldwide incorporate yoga into their daily routines, embracing it as a means to harmonize their entire being.
As International Yoga Day approaches, individuals worldwide are preparing to unroll their yoga mats and engage in this ancient practice. However, it is crucial to recognize that yoga has a rich history that spans centuries.
Originating in India approximately 5,000 years ago, yoga was developed as a means to establish a deep connection between the mind, body, and soul, ultimately leading towards enlightenment. While it gained popularity in the Western world, it was often popularized as a form of exercise and relaxation, with claims of improving overall well-being, relieving physical ailments, and managing chronic pain.
The inception of International Yoga Day can be attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who proposed the idea on September 27, 2014, during his address at the UN General Assembly. This led to the introduction of a resolution by India’s Ambassador, Asoke Kumar Mukerji, seeking to establish June 21 as the appointed day for celebrating yoga globally.
The specific date, June 21, holds significance as it coincides with the Summer Solstice, the day with the longest duration of sunlight in the year. The resolution garnered support from 177 nations, marking it as the UN resolution with the highest number of co-sponsors, and officially proclaiming June 21 as International Yoga Day.
The inaugural celebration took place on June 21, 2015, in New Delhi, where nearly 36,000 individuals, including Prime Minister Modi and prominent political figures from across the globe, performed 21 yoga asanas (postures) for 35 minutes. Since then, International Yoga Day has been celebrated annually worldwide, with people embracing the practice and its multiple benefits.
The theme for International Yoga Day 2024Â
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The official theme for International Yoga Day 2024 is “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” This theme highlights the importance of promoting the well-being of all individuals through the regular practice of yoga, without any form of discrimination.
The concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” originates from the ancient Indian scriptures, specifically the Maha Upanishads. It conveys the belief that the entire world is like one extended family. It emphasises the interconnectedness of all human beings and stresses the need to foster unity, harmony, and cooperation among individuals, surpassing barriers of nationality, religion, race, or any other divisive factors.
By embracing this theme, International Yoga Day aims to encourage people to recognize the fundamental unity that exists among all individuals. It promotes the idea that practising yoga can contribute to the well-being and health of every person. This theme reflects a vision of a shared future where all people can coexist peacefully and thrive together.
In essence, the theme “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” serves as a reminder that we are all part of one global family and that by practising yoga, we can work towards a harmonious and inclusive world for the betterment of humanity.
