“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self”  -  The Bhagavad Gita

The International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 marks a significant milestone, the 11th anniversary of this global celebration. Under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” this year's observance highlights yoga’s vital role in promoting global well-being and environmental harmony.

The Significance of Yoga

Yoga, an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, 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," symbolizing the unity of mind and body, thought and action, restraint and fulfillment, and harmony between humans and nature. Yoga provides an approach to health and well-being, striking a balance between all aspects of life.

The History of International Yoga Day

Due to the relentless efforts of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, June 21 was declared as the International Yoga Day by the United Nations General Assembly on December 11, 2014, with Resolution 69/131. India proposed the draft resolution, which was supported by a record-breaking 175 member states. The proposal was initially proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly, highlighting the benefits of yoga for health and well-being.

The Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health

This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” reminds us of a powerful truth: our personal health and the health of our planet are closely connected. When we care for our bodies and minds through yoga, we are also helping to create a healthier world. Yoga teaches us to live in balance with ourselves, with others, and with nature. It encourages us to be kind, calm, and mindful in everything we do. By practicing yoga, we become more aware of how our actions affect not only our well-being but also the environment around us.

This theme inspires us to live in harmony with the Earth. It tells us that when we breathe clean air, eat healthy food from the earth, and live peacefully, both we and our planet thrive. A healthy body and a healthy Earth go hand in hand. So, as we roll out our yoga mats this year, let us remember: every breath we take and every mindful movement we make can help build a better, healthier world for ourselves, for each other, and for future generations.

The Celebrations

The International Day of Yoga 2025 is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and unity across the country. This year, the celebrations feature 10 Signature Events, each thoughtfully designed to bring people from all walks of life together and truly reflect the spirit of “Yoga for All.” These events aim to make yoga more accessible, meaningful, and enjoyable for everyone regardless of age, background, or location. At the heart of the celebration is the grand event called ‘Yoga Sangam.’ This is the main highlight of IDY 2025, where mass yoga sessions will take place at an incredible 1,00,000 locations across India. It symbolizes the strength of togetherness and the shared journey towards health and harmony. 

Alongside Yoga Sangam, there are nine other inspiring events. Yoga Bandhan focuses on building bonds and connections through community yoga. Yoga Park turns public parks into peaceful yoga spaces where people can gather and practice in nature. Yoga Samavesh promotes inclusion by bringing yoga to underserved communities and people with special needs. Yoga Prabhava highlights the positive impact of yoga on daily life and health. Yoga Connect strengthens partnerships between yoga practitioners, organizations, and wellness experts. Harit Yoga blends yoga with care for the environment, encouraging people to plant trees and protect nature. Yoga Unplugged offers digital detox sessions, helping people disconnect from screens and reconnect with themselves through meditation and mindful breathing. Yoga Mahakumbh is a grand confluence of yoga experts, teachers, and enthusiasts from around the world, sharing knowledge and wisdom. Finally, Samyoga is about the union of different yoga styles and cultures, showing the diversity and richness of yoga traditions.

The Guinness World Records

Did you know that International Yoga Day holds two Guinness World Records? The grand event held in New Delhi on June 21, 2015, achieved records for the largest yoga session (35,985 participants) and the most nationalities (84) in one session. This year, International Yoga Day will be celebrated with a grand event in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, where Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will lead the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) session with over five lakh participants.

International Yoga Day 2025 is a celebration of unity, harmony, and holistic well-being. As we embark on this journey of self-discovery and connection with others, let's recognize the significance of yoga in promoting physical, mental, and spiritual health. Let us come together to practice yoga, share its benefits, and contribute to the well-being of our planet.