UN Celebrates International Day of Yoga, Emphasizing Unity and Harmony

GG News Bureau
United Nations, 22nd June. Leaders at the United Nations commemorated the 10th International Day of Yoga, highlighting yoga as a symbol of global unity and harmony. The event, held at the UN Headquarters, brought together diplomats, UN staff, and members of the Indian diaspora in a celebration of the ancient practice’s universal appeal.

UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis described yoga as “a powerful metaphor for the United Nations itself,” emphasizing how yoga, like the UN, unites diverse aspects to create a balanced and harmonious whole. “In this unity, distinct parts come together to form a unified sum greater than its parts, symbolizing peace and harmony,” he remarked in a video message.

Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed underscored yoga’s role in fostering unity across cultures and countries. “Yoga is about the unity of mind, body, and spirit. It unites people across boundaries, reflecting our shared interests and humanity,” she affirmed.

Reflecting on last year’s achievement of setting a Guinness World Record for the most nationalities practicing yoga together, Mohammed highlighted yoga’s global popularity and its ability to bring people together.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a written message, praised yoga’s impact on individual well-being and society. “Yoga’s values of balance, mindfulness, and peace resonate globally, bringing people together with a shared commitment to people and planet alike,” he stated.

The celebration at the UN Headquarters North Lawn included a mass yoga session attended by diplomats, UN personnel, and members of the Indian diaspora, adorned in white and blue T-shirts bearing the Yoga Day logo. The atmosphere was enriched with cultural performances, including Rabindranath Tagore’s “Streams of Light” performed by the UN Chamber Music Society and classical dances incorporating yoga postures by the Indian Raga dance troupe.

Denise Scotto, Chair of the UN’s International Day of Yoga Committee, highlighted the global solidarity behind the day, noting that 177 countries co-sponsored the General Assembly resolution establishing June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014.

As the celebration concluded amidst a serene atmosphere with a gentle breeze from the East River, participants expressed renewed commitment to the values of peace, harmony, and holistic well-being embodied by yoga.