India Hosts 12th International Yoga Day at UN Headquarters

The Permanent Mission of India to the UN led the event, highlighting yoga’s global reach and cultural significance.

Ambassador Harish P, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, underscored yoga’s growing international influence and its role in promoting holistic well-being. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a special message, reinforcing the importance of yoga in fostering health and harmony. UNSG @antonioguterres delivered a special message on the occasion.

The program featured sessions based on the Common Yoga Protocol and an advanced demonstration by the Art of Living Foundation. Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, the first female and non-Indian Siddha Master, also graced the occasion. Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, recognised as the first female and non-Indian Siddha Master, also graced the occasion..

The UN celebration forms part of a broader series of events across the United States ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21. Large-scale gatherings are scheduled at iconic landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC, Times Square in New York City, and Navy Pier in Chicago.

This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” focuses on enhancing physical mobility, mental wellness, and longevity through yoga. The Indian Embassy in Washington has invited the public to join a flagship yoga event at the Lincoln Memorial, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s yoga guru, HR Nagendra, will lead a major session at Times Square. In Washington, the Indian Embassy has invited members of the public to participate in a flagship yoga event at the Linco…Current page. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s yoga guru, HR Nagendra, is scheduled to lead a major yoga gathering at Times S….

Established by the UN General Assembly in 2014, International Yoga Day has been observed annually since 2015, reinforcing yoga’s role as a tool for health, harmony, and global unity.