In 2014, following a proposal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the United Nations declared June 21st as International Yoga Day. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi celebrated International Yoga Day in Srinagar, the “land of sadhna.” Addressing an event in Jammu and Kashmir’s capital, PM Modi emphasized that yoga helps practitioners understand that “our welfare is related to the welfare of the world around us.”
Highlighting the increasing popularity of yoga over the past decade, the Prime Minister noted that the “yoga economy” has generated employment in India. He extended his greetings to the people of India and the global community performing yoga, acknowledging the historic journey of International Yoga Day over the last ten years. Modi recalled that in 2014, India’s proposal for International Yoga Day was supported by 177 nations at the United Nations, setting a record.
During his address, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for visiting Srinagar, a place he described as the land of ‘yoga’ and ‘sadhna.’ He spoke about the palpable ‘shakti’ or energy derived from yoga in Srinagar and conveyed his wishes for Yoga Day from Kashmir to practitioners across India and the world. On his two-day visit to Srinagar, Modi observed that the expansion of yoga over the last decade has altered global perceptions about the practice.
He noted a growing “yoga economy” in India, with places like Rishikesh, Kashi, and Kerala becoming hubs for yoga tourism. Tourists from around the world are coming to India to learn authentic yoga, creating new opportunities and employment for the youth. PM Modi mentioned that the number of people practicing yoga has been steadily increasing globally, with international curiosity about yoga rising.
Further, he remarked that yoga promotes strength, good health, and wellness, urging people to integrate this ancient practice into their daily lives for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He highlighted the recognition of a 101-year-old French yoga teacher, awarded the Padma Shri, who dedicated her life to spreading yoga awareness despite never having visited India. Modi also pointed out that prestigious universities and institutions worldwide are now conducting research on yoga, publishing significant research papers.
In conclusion, PM Modi underscored the transformative impact of yoga and its growing global resonance, celebrating its contribution to health and well-being.
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