As India is gearing up to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, the government is organising a multitude of events nationwide to mark the occasion with “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” as this year’s theme. Yoga Sangam, the main event, will orchestrate a synchronised mass yoga demonstration based on the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) at over 1 lakh locations across India on June 21, 2025, from 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the national event at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This collective celebration aims to reaffirm our shared commitment to the timeless practice of yoga and its enduring relevance in today’s world.
An invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, Yoga has emerged as one of the most trusted means to boost physical and mental well-being. The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’, meaning “to join,” “to yoke,” or “to unite.” It symbolises the unity of mind and body, thought and action, restraint and fulfilment, harmony between human and nature, and a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Recognising its universal appeal, on December 11, 2014, the United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131. The draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and was endorsed by a record 175 member states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi first introduced the proposal in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly on September 27, 2014. The date of June 21 was chosen as it is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
This day represents a symbolic harmony between nature and human wellness and is important in many cultures.
This ushered in an era of holistic health revolution, in which attention was given to prevention rather than cure. Since its first edition in 2015, India has led the celebration globally under the aegis of the Ministry of AYUSH, with active support from state governments, Indian missions abroad, and UN agencies, an official statement from the AYUSH Ministry said.
Highlighting the significance of symbol of Yoga Day, the statement said, “Folding of both hands in the logo symbolises Yoga, the union, which reflects the union of individual consciousness with that of universal consciousness, a perfect harmony between mind and body, man & nature; a holistic approach to health & well-being. The brown leaves symbolise the Earth element, the green leaves symbolise Nature, the blue symbolises the Water element, the brightness symbolises the Fire element, and the Sun symbolises the source of energy and inspiration. The logo reflects harmony and peace for humanity, which is the essence of Yoga.”
The journey of Yoga Day has been nothing short of extraordinary, as from a modest participation of 9.59 crore individuals in 2018, the celebration has grown exponentially. In 2024, an estimated 24.53 crore people joined celebrations worldwide, showcasing the event’s massive global appeal. The day has become a global wellness movement, uniting millions across countries, the release added.
This year marks the 11th International Day of Yoga, with the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”. This theme echoes a vital truth about the interconnectedness of health, sustainability, and the environment, aligning with India’s “One Earth, One Family, One Future” vision highlighted during its G20 presidency.
The International Day of Yoga 2025 will not just be a one-day observance–it will reflect India’s enduring commitment to holistic health, environmental harmony, and global well-being. With “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” as its guiding principle, India continues to lead the world in connecting physical fitness with mindful living. The PM Yoga Awards will also recognise excellence in promoting and practising Yoga.
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