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The Permanent Mission of India (PMI) to the United Nations commemorated the 12th International Day of Yoga at United Nations Headquarters in New York on June 18, 2026, bringing together hundreds of participants to celebrate yoga’s growing global appeal and health benefits.
According to PMI, this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” reflects the widely recognized role of yoga in enhancing physical vitality, mental resilience, and emotional well-being, helping individuals lead healthier, more active, and fulfilling lives.
In his opening remarks, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni highlighted yoga’s expanding global reach and influence.
He noted that yoga has evolved into a “powerful force” that promotes “physical, mental, and spiritual well-being” across “geographies, cultures, and faiths,” underscoring its universal appeal. He added that yoga is rooted in India’s ancient wisdom and guided by the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “the world is one family.”
In a special message marking the occasion, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that yoga teaches mindfulness, respect, and care for humanity, the planet, and one another.
The event was also attended by Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, the first female and non-Indian Siddha Master.
PMI noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi first proposed the idea of an International Day of Yoga during his address to the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The UN General Assembly subsequently adopted a resolution on December 11, 2014, proclaiming June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
“The resolution was endorsed by a record 175 Member States. Since then, millions of people around the globe have celebrated this day with great fervor every year. In 2023, the International Day of Yoga celebration at the United Nations Headquarters created a Guinness World Record for the participation of yoga enthusiasts from most nationalities,” PMI said.
Approximately 800 yoga enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds participated in the celebration. The program included sessions based on the Common Yoga Protocol and an advanced yoga demonstration by the Art of Living Foundation.
Dennis Scotto, chair of the International Day of Yoga Committee at the United Nations, served as the master of ceremonies for the event.
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