The world is going to observe the 12th International Yoga Day on 21 June. This year’s theme is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” which means maintaining a healthy mind and good health at all ages. This year's focus also highlights yoga as an essential tool for boosting vitality, promoting mobility, and enhancing preventive healthcare among older populations. 

With the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this day was first observed on 21 June 2015 after the United Nations General Assembly adopted the proposal, which was supported by a large number of countries.

21 June Chosen as Yoga Day

21 June was chosen as Yoga Day because it is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The UN selected this date to promote global awareness of the holistic physical, mental, and spiritual benefits that yoga offers for human well-being. 

The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations held a yoga session ahead of 21 June International Yoga Day at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Friday.

According to reports, around 800 people attended, coming from different corners of the world to mark the global observance of the ancient Indian practice.

The programme included sessions based on Common Yoga Protocols and an advanced Yoga Demonstrations by the Art of Living Foundation.

Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, the first woman and non-Indian who is widely recognised as a Siddha Master, also attended the session.

Who is Yogmata?

Yogmata Keiko Aikawa is a Japanese spiritual leader, yoga teacher, and author. She is the first woman and non-Indian in history to be conferred the highest title of “Siddha Master” and the status of “Mahamandaleshwar” by the Juna Akhara in India.

Yoga events across the US

Ahead of International Yoga Day, yoga sessions are being organised across various parts of the United States. The event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York is also part of these celebrations.

Several more events are yet to be held, including those at Washington, DC's Lincoln Memorial, New York City's Times Square, and Chicago's Navy Pier.

Dr. H. R. Nagendra, known as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's yoga mentor, is scheduled to participate in the International Day of Yoga celebrations at Times Square.

"The world is going to observe the 12th International Yoga Day on 21 June. This year’s theme is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” which means mainta…"