The 9th edition of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) unfolded in grandeur at Koninginnenhoofd Quay in the Port of Rotterdam on June 21, 2023. This vibrant celebration, organized by the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the City of Rotterdam, marked a significant event as part of the “Ocean Ring of Yoga.”
Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Unifying Power of Yoga
The theme for this year’s IDY was “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasizing the unifying power of yoga. Yoga, as a practice, has the extraordinary ability to bring people together, transcending boundaries.
Innovative Events to Commemorate IDY
To make this year’s IDY unique, several innovative events were organized, including the “Ocean Ring of Yoga,” “Yoga from Arctic to Antarctica,” and “Yoga at North Pole and South Pole.” These events aimed to showcase the universal reach and inclusivity of yoga, transcending geographical constraints.
Global Yoga Celebration Led by Indian Prime Minister
In a remarkable display of commitment to spreading awareness about yoga, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, led the yoga celebrations at the UN Headquarters in New York. This global participation highlighted the international recognition and importance of yoga as a holistic approach to health and well-being.
United Nations’ Recognition of Yoga
The United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 at India’s initiative. This acknowledgment underscores that yoga provides a holistic approach to health and well-being and is beneficial for the global population. Since then, the International Day of Yoga has been enthusiastically observed worldwide.
Health Benefits of Yoga
Yoga offers a multitude of health benefits, promoting physical well-being, flexibility, balance, and mental calmness. Its positive impact is touching the lives of millions across the globe, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to health.
Government Initiatives to Promote Yoga Worldwide
The Government of India is actively taking steps to promote the positive benefits of yoga globally. Initiatives like the International Day of Yoga serve as platforms to encourage people from all corners of the earth to embrace this ancient practice for a healthier and more balanced life.
IDY Celebrations Across the Netherlands
The Embassy of India in the Netherlands has been actively celebrating IDY since 2015. This year, as part of the celebrations, yoga sessions were organized in eight cities, including Utrecht, Eindhoven, Amstelveen, The Hague, Rotterdam, Roermond, Wageningen, and Leeuwarden. More than 1000 people joined these events, contributing to the global celebration of the unifying power of yoga.
The celebration of the International Day of Yoga in Rotterdam and around the world underscores the significance of this ancient practice in promoting harmony, well-being, and a sense of global kinship. As yoga continues to weave its way into the fabric of diverse societies, its impact on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of individuals remains undeniable.
