Yoga Goes Global: Prime Minister Modi Leads The Charge At UN Headquarters

New Delhi, 21th June 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lead a yoga session on Wednesday, commemorating the 9th International Day of Yoga at the UN Headquarters. This momentous occasion will witness the participation of distinguished individuals, high-ranking UN officials, and envoys from all corners of the globe.

Expressing his excitement, Prime Minister Modi shared a tweet upon his arrival in New York City, where he will be engaged in various programs, including interaction with thought leaders and the Yoga Day program on June 21st.
This visit to the United States marks the beginning of Prime Minister Modi’s inaugural state visit, following a gracious invitation from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.

Nearly a decade after Prime Minister Modi’s initial proposal at the United Nations General Assembly to establish International Yoga Day as an annual celebration, he will finally be present at the UN Headquarters to lead the yoga session, making it an exceptionally historic occasion.

In a statement, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the global significance of Yoga Day, noting that it has transcended borders and become a universal phenomenon. He highlighted the special theme of this year’s celebrations, the “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), which emphasizes the unity and interconnectedness of all people. According to the Prime Minister, yoga possesses the power to unite the world, and it is our responsibility to showcase India as a great nation with the motto of “Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat”
To promote tribal products and support tribal artisa (One India, Excelling Indians), the Tribal Affairs Ministry’s Tribal Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (TRIFED) has sourced 34,000 yoga mats exclusively from tribal communities in the country. These mats, adorned with designs and motifs representing various tribal traditions, will be utilized during government events to commemorate the International Yoga Day.

The Ministry of Ayush will incorporate these mats into a range of events, workshops, and training programs organized on the International Yoga Day.

With participants from over 180 countries, the Yoga Day celebrations led by Prime Minister Modi will include diplomats, artists, academicians, entrepreneurs, and people from diverse backgrounds. The event organizers strongly recommend that guests and attendees come dressed in Yoga-friendly clothing for the special session. Additionally, yoga mats will be made available to all participants during the event, ensuring that everyone can fully engage in the session. Feel free to make use of the provided mats and make the most out of your experience! to take home as souvenirs.

The United Nations officials, agencies, and member states have expressed their enthusiasm for participating in this historic event. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the highest-ranking woman at the organization, expressed her anticipation in a tweet, stating that she is looking forward to joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 9th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the UNHQ North Lawn.

The UN recognizes Yoga as an ancient practice with physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions that originated in India. The word ‘yoga,’ derived from Sanskrit, signifies unity and the union of body and consciousness. Today, yoga is practised in various forms worldwide and continues to gain popularity.