Addressing the nation on International Yoga Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the world is looking at Yoga as an agent of global good. The PM was scheduled to address the nations on the banks of the Dal Lake to celebrate the 10th International Yoga Day but due to incessant rain the event was moved indoor.The prime minister is now performing yoga in a 30-minute session. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society”, emphasises yoga’s vital role in fostering individual well-being and social harmony.
Over the years, PM Modi has led Yoga Day celebrations at various iconic locations, including Delhi’s Kartavya Path, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi and Jabalpur. Last year, he led the events at the UN Headquarters in New York, which is expected to bring more attention to the Srinagar programme.
Global Participation:
This year’s event in Srinagar was not just a national affair but a global one. With the participation of over 50 ambassadors and representatives from various countries, the celebration highlighted yoga’s growing international appeal. The serene surroundings of Srinagar provided a perfect backdrop for this convergence of cultures.
Ambassadors from countries including the USA, Japan, Germany, and Brazil joined hands (and mats) with local participants, demonstrating yoga postures and sharing messages of peace and camaraderie. This diverse representation underscored yoga’s universal appeal and its power to bridge cultures and nations.
Highlights from Srinagar:
Prime Minister Modi’s Address: PM Modi’s opening address was a highlight, where he emphasized the importance of integrating yoga into daily life. He remarked on the special significance of holding the event in Srinagar, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Mass Yoga Session: Following the address, a mass yoga session led by renowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev took place. Participants of all ages, from school children to senior citizens, took part in performing various asanas (yoga postures), creating a captivating mosaic of synchronized movements.
Cultural Performances: The event also featured cultural performances showcasing the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Traditional Kashmiri music and dance added a unique flavor to the celebrations, captivating the audience and highlighting the region’s vibrant culture.
Health and Wellness Stalls: Several stalls promoting wellness and healthy living were set up around the venue. These included displays and demonstrations of Ayurvedic products, herbal medicines, and organic foods, aligning with the holistic lifestyle promoted by yoga.
Global Celebrations:
While Srinagar hosted the main event, International Yoga Day was celebrated across the world with equal zeal. In New York, a massive gathering at Times Square saw thousands of participants practicing yoga in unison. Similar events were held in London, Paris, Sydney, and Tokyo, with people embracing the ancient practice in iconic locations.
In India, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the beaches of Goa, yoga sessions were conducted in parks, community centers, and schools. The Indian Armed Forces also participated, with personnel performing yoga on land, sea, and air, including sessions held on aircraft carriers and submarines.
Looking Forward:
International Yoga Day 2024 in Srinagar was a testament to the enduring legacy of yoga and its role in fostering global unity and well-being. As the world continues to embrace this ancient practice, the message from Srinagar is clear: Yoga is not just a physical exercise but a way to cultivate inner peace and harmony, essential for personal and global well-being.
As the sun set over the Dal Lake, the participants dispersed with a sense of fulfillment and tranquility, carrying forward the spirit of yoga into their daily lives. This year’s celebrations have once again demonstrated the timeless relevance of yoga and its profound impact on individuals and societies worldwide.
