International Yoga Day 2024: Celebrated globally on June 21, International Yoga Day promotes the myriad benefits of yoga for physical, mental, and spiritual health. This year, PM Modi will commemorate the event in Srinagar.
International Yoga Day 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of this global celebration on June 21, emphasizing yoga’s benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. The word “yoga” originates from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” meaning “to join,” “to yoke,” or “to unite.” Yoga represents the union of mind and body, thought and action, self-restraint and fulfillment, and harmony between humans and nature.
Each year, International Yoga Day adopts a specific theme to highlight different aspects of yoga. The theme for 2024 is “Yoga for Self and Society.”
International Yoga Day 2024 History
Though yoga dates back to ancient India, it was in September 2014 that Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the observance of International Yoga Day during his United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) address. In his speech to the 69th session of the UNGA, the prime minister stated, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action—a holistic approach that is valuable to our health and well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover a sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and nature.”
Following this, on December 11, 2014, the UNGA proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
How will International Yoga Day 2024 be celebrated?
On June 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will celebrate International Yoga Day in Srinagar, addressing a gathering and participating in a yoga session. The 10th Yoga Day event will also be celebrated at the UN Headquarters in New York.
“As Yoga Day approaches, I am sharing a set of videos that will offer guidance on various asanas and their benefits. I hope this inspires you all to practice yoga regularly,” PM Modi posted on X on June 11.
‘Yoga with Modi’
On June 12, PM Modi posted a video on Vrikshasana, saying, “Vrikshasana, or the tree pose, has several benefits, including helping improve balance and posture.” The video provided a step-by-step guide to performing Vrikshasana.
On June 13, the prime minister shared another video, explaining Tadasana. “Tadasana is very good for the body. It will ensure more strength and better alignment,” he posted.
On June 14, another video offered a step-by-step guide to performing Trikonasana. “Practice Trikonasana for improved shoulders, back, and concentration,” the prime minister said. PM Modi posted all three videos with Hindi translations. The YouTube page also features animated explainers on Ardha Chakrasana, Padahastasana, Bhadrasana, Ustrasana, Vajrasana, Shashankasana, Vakrasana, Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana, and more.
Celebrities Embrace International Yoga Day with Enthusiasm
Renowned actress and fitness enthusiast Shilpa Shetty shared an inspiring reel for International Yoga Day. In her caption, she wrote, “Every emotion is connected with the breath. If you change the breath and its rhythm with awareness, you can change the emotion 🧘♀️✨ This Yoga Day, let’s make every breath count ♥️ #InternationalYogaDay #yogaforselfandsociety #SwasthRahoMastRaho #Soulful #idy2024.”
Her message encourages everyone to embrace the transformative power of mindful breathing and yoga.
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Actor Jackie Shroff was seen embracing the spirit of International Yoga Day by performing various yoga asanas in Mumbai. Captured in serene moments of meditation, Jackie Shroff’s dedication to wellness was clearly on display.
Actress Rakul Preet Singh celebrated the day with her husband, Jackky Bhagnani, sharing inspiring photos of them practicing yoga together on Instagram. She wrote, “Together in wellness and all things beautiful happy #internationaldayofyoga to all you lovely people .. #fittogetherstaytogether Yoga is a state of mind, a state of bliss, a feeling of being one with yourself and the universe take baby steps towards a healthier you.”
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Cricketer Yuvraj Singh brought a touch of family charm to the celebrations, posting an adorable picture with his son. He humorously captioned it, “Meet my new Yoga teacher 🤪 👶 🧘”
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As these celebrities showcase their commitment to health and mindfulness, it’s clear that yoga is more than just a practice—it’s a way of life.
Let’s Celebrate International Yoga Day by embracing yoga’s holistic benefits and inspiring others to join this global movement. Let’s unite in the pursuit of wellness and harmony.
Practice, share, and inspire others to make yoga a part of their lives.
Reference- Mint.com, ANI, X, Instagram
