PM Modi Leads 11th International Yoga Day Amid Global Unrest
On June 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the 11th International Yoga Day celebrations in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Speaking to a gathering of nearly 300,000 participants, he underscored yoga's timeless ability to bring tranquility and balance in a world fraught with tension and instability.
Yoga as a Universal Remedy for Peace and Balance
PM Modi described yoga as the much-needed "pause button" humanity requires to breathe, regain balance, and restore wholeness in turbulent times. Highlighting the pervasive unrest affecting many regions globally, he called for yoga to serve as a guiding light toward inner peace.
"My request to the world is to let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for Humanity 2.0," Modi said. "Where inner peace becomes global policy."
Breaking Boundaries: Yoga's Inclusive Essence
Emphasizing yoga’s inclusivity, the Prime Minister pointed out that it transcends barriers of age, physical ability, culture, and nationality. "Yoga is for everyone—beyond boundaries, backgrounds, age, or physical ability. It's a universal gift that unites humanity in health, harmony, and consciousness," he said.
Global Unity Through Yoga
Reflecting on India’s successful 2014 initiative that led to the United Nations declaring June 21 as International Yoga Day, Modi noted the remarkable international solidarity the movement received. In just a short time, 175 countries rallied behind the proposal, demonstrating a shared commitment to promoting health and well-being worldwide.
"This overwhelming global support was extraordinary—not merely agreeing to a proposal but taking a collective step for humanity’s betterment," he remarked. "Today, yoga has woven itself into the fabric of daily life across continents, from the steps of the Sydney Opera House to the peaks of Everest and the vast oceans."
Celebration by the Sea and Beyond
The festivities unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of the Visakhapatnam coastline, with the Indian Navy’s ships stationed nearby, symbolizing strength and unity. Participants across the globe joined in synchronized yoga practices, reinforcing the message of global harmony through personal well-being.
International Yoga Day remains a powerful reminder of how age-old traditions can serve as anchors of peace and unity in an often-chaotic world.
