International Yoga Day 2025 is being celebrated across the globe on June 21, marking the 11th edition of this worldwide observance. This year, millions of people are coming together to embrace the ancient practice of yoga, highlighting its universal appeal and powerful role in enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
International Yoga Day 2025: Theme
The 2025 theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasises the deep link between personal wellness and the health of the planet, reflecting the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family.
History of International Yoga Day
The idea for an international day dedicated to yoga was first proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India during his address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014. He highlighted yoga as an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition that embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action, harmony between man and nature.
Following this, on December 11, 2014, the UNGA adopted a resolution with the support of 177 nations, declaring June 21 as International Day of Yoga. The date was chosen as it marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, which holds spiritual significance in many cultures.
The first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June 21, 2015, with a record-setting mass yoga demonstration led by PM Modi in New Delhi, involving over 35,000 participants.
Significance of International Yoga Day
Promoting physical and mental health:
Yoga is a time-tested practice that improves flexibility, builds strength, enhances lung capacity, and reduces stress and anxiety. On a global level, Yoga Day raises awareness about adopting healthier lifestyles.
Global cultural unity:
Though rooted in Indian tradition, yoga transcends national and cultural boundaries. International Yoga Day highlights yoga’s universal relevance and its ability to unite people in the pursuit of well-being.
Fostering peace and mindfulness:
In a world grappling with mental health crises and rising stress levels, yoga offers tools for mindfulness, meditation, and mental clarity, promoting inner peace and emotional resilience.
Sustainability and lifestyle discipline:
Yoga encourages a balanced, non-excessive way of living that aligns with sustainable development goals. It promotes harmony with oneself, others, and nature.
As the world celebrates International Yoga Day 2025, it is a timely reminder to incorporate yoga not just as a one-day observance but as a daily discipline for holistic well-being. Yoga continues to inspire a global movement toward health, balance, and inner peace—proving that a practice rooted in ancient wisdom remains profoundly relevant in modern life.
