International Yoga Day is an annual celebration aimed at promoting the ancient Indian practice of yoga and its physical and spiritual benefits. This year’s Yoga Day 2024 theme is titled ‘Yoga for Self and Society’ and revolves around self-enlightenment.
The idea for an International Yoga Day was first proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 during an address to the United Nations General Assembly. Modi emphasised yoga’s advantages for holistic health and wellbeing, and noted yoga’s origins as a cherished Indian tradition with the potential to promote global welfare. The UN General Assembly subsequently adopted the resolution on 11 December 2014, declaring 21 June as International Yoga Day. The date was chosen as it marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, which in Indian culture symbolises “the restoration of light and warmth”.
How the World Celebrates?
The first International Yoga Day was observed on 21 June 2015, with millions participating in yoga activities worldwide. The celebrations take diverse forms across different countries:
In India, large-scale yoga events in New Delhi draw thousands of participants, including government officials, students, and military personnel, who gather on the ceremonial Rajpath to practise yoga together.
In the United States, the inaugural International Yoga Day in New York’s Times Square to practise yoga ev.
In France, crowds congregate at the Champ de Mars in front of the Eiffel Tower or the surrounding public spaces to roll out their yoga mats.
Taiwan has also seen major events, with over 5000 people gathering at a university sports stadium in Taipei to practise yoga collectively.
