Did you know that International Yoga Day is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s brainchild?

21st June is traditionally recognised as the Summer Solstice around the world. But can you think of any other significance attached to this date? Well, if you’re into fitness and yoga, you may know that 21st June is also celebrated as International Yoga Day. And how did this day, which is the creation of Prime Minister Narenda Modi, come about?  

Let’s go all the way back to 27th September, 2014, to crack this mystery. On this day, PM Modi floated the idea of a ‘Yoga Day’ while addressing the United Nations General Assembly. Following this, India presented a draft resolution which was approved by a record 175 UN member states. As a result, 21st June was christened as International Yoga Day; it was celebrated worldwide for the first time in 2015. 

This year’s grand celebrations took place at the Mysore Palace in Karnataka. PM Modi himself graced this celebratory event and even made a speech about how yoga can instill peace in the universe. He also added, “Yoga is no longer a part of life… it’s becoming a way of life.” To this effect, “Yoga for Humanity” was chosen as the theme of International Yoga Day 2022. Other eye-catching Yoga Day celebrations included the Indian Army’s canine unit performing yoga and the local trains in Mumbai showcasing passengers practising yoga.  

Yoga: Benefits and Origin
Before delving into the origins of yoga, let’s find out why it’s so popular. Traditional yoga exercises focus on improving one’s breathing, posture and overall body strength. Healthcare experts have also found that regular yoga enables one to sleep better and practise the qualities of calmness and self-control. In this way, in addition to having physical benefits, yoga also boosts one’s mental well-being.  

Now, let’s explore the roots of yoga. Studies indicate that this spiritual practice originated in northern India thousands of years ago, in the 5th century. Wondering how yoga got its name? Well, it’s derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yog’ which literally translates to union. Perhaps that’s why yoga is widely described as the union of the body, the mind and the soul.  

Although nobody can say for sure when the word ‘yoga’ was first used, experts trace its first documented mention to the sacred Hindu text, the Rigveda. Research also indicates that ancient Indian sages (‘rishis’) developed and refined this practice. Their learnings and observations have been compiled in another collection of sacred texts, titled the Upanishads. Interestingly, yoga isn’t just confined to Hindu philosophy; it’s also a staple of traditional Buddhist meditation practices. 

How does the world celebrate International Yoga Day?
So far, 80 countries have wholeheartedly embraced yoga as a vital aspect of their daily lives. This year, the Indian Mission in Kathmandu organised International Yoga Day celebrations in Nepal. The Nepalese PM Sher Shah Deuba himself participated in the festivities. Maldives also celebrated International Yoga Day with great gusto. Several ambassadors, diplomats and officials assembled in the national football stadium in the capital city of Male to mark the day. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was not left far behind either. Thousands of yoga enthusiasts, especially women, thronged the World Trade Centre in Dubai in honour of the occasion.