International Day of Yoga

International Day of Yoga is observed every year on 21 June across the globe, following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014. The day promotes the practice of yoga, which originated in ancient India, highlighting its benefits for physical and mental well-being.

• Celebrated worldwide every 21 June
• Originated from a 2014 UN resolution led by India
• First observed in 2015 with mass events in New Delhi
• Promotes physical and mental well-being through yoga
• Supported by 177 nations in the UN General Assembly

What it is

International Day of Yoga is a global observance dedicated to celebrating and promoting yoga, an ancient practice from India known for its positive effects on body and mind. Recognized by the United Nations, the day encourages people of all backgrounds to come together and experience yoga’s potential for improving health, fostering harmony, and nurturing peace. It is a moment for communities worldwide to unite in the shared pursuit of wellness, regardless of age, nationality, or faith.

Where it comes from

The idea for an International Day of Yoga was first proposed by India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, during a 2014 address to the United Nations. He suggested 21 June, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, as a date of special significance. The proposal received unprecedented support, with 177 countries co-sponsoring the resolution, which was adopted unanimously by the UN General Assembly. The first celebration took place on 21 June 2015, marking a new chapter in the global recognition of yoga’s cultural and health value.

How it is celebrated

On 21 June, people gather in parks, community centers, and public spaces around the world to practice yoga together. Events often include group sessions led by experienced instructors, where participants perform a series of yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises, and sometimes meditation. In India, large-scale gatherings are common, with thousands joining in iconic locations such as Rajpath in New Delhi. The day is marked by a spirit of inclusivity, with activities designed to welcome newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike. Some celebrations feature talks on yoga’s history and benefits, while others focus on the practical experience of movement and mindfulness.

Joining in

If you wish to take part, look for events in major cities and local communities, as International Day of Yoga is celebrated in countries across the world. In India, the largest gatherings often take place in New Delhi and other major cities, but smaller sessions can be found almost everywhere. Expect a welcoming atmosphere, with mats laid out in open spaces and people of all ages participating. Comfortable clothing and an open mind are all you need to join in and experience the collective energy of this global wellness event.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article International Day of Yoga, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• International Day of Yoga on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Official websiteOfficial site
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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