As the sun rose over the Bay of Bengal this morning, waves of people lined the shores of Visakhapatnam, mats in hand, hearts open. It was more than just a yoga session, it was a symbol. Today, on 21 June 2025, the world came together for the 11th International Yoga Day, and this year’s celebration was not only massive in scale but profound in purpose. With the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the emphasis this time is on healing the self while being in sync with the planet.
A Historic Movement That Started With An Ancient Practice
Yoga, often misunderstood as merely a physical exercise, is an ancient Indian discipline that integrates body, mind and spirit. Though its roots trace back thousands of years, it was in 2014 that Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a global day of observance for yoga at the United Nations General Assembly. He recommended 21 June, the summer solstice, due to its symbolic connection with inner balance and planetary alignment. The proposal received record support from 177 countries, and by 2015, Yoga Day became an annual fixture on the international calendar.
Each year since, Yoga Day has only grown bigger. From quiet sessions in local parks to high-profile events attended by world leaders, the evolution of this day reflects how yoga has moved from being a traditional Indian practice to a modern global health movement.
Also Read: Yoga and Kriya: A Path to Inner Harmony
International Yoga Day 2025 Mega Celebration On The Shores Of Andhra Pradesh
This year, the official celebration was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. Prime Minister Modi led the event alongside Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan. The event took place along a stunning 26-kilometre beach stretch, from Ramakrishna Beach to Bhogapuram. More than three lakh people participated in synchronised yoga, making it one of the largest mass yoga gatherings to date.
What made this year’s event even more special was the sheer inclusivity and coordination involved. Over one lakh locations across India participated simultaneously in what was called “Yoga Sangam.” Andhra Pradesh alone reported over two crore registrations. Tribal children, school students, health workers, police personnel, defence forces, and common citizens were all united in this incredible collective experience.
A Guinness World Record With 108 Surya Namaskars On International Yoga Day
One of the highlights of this year’s celebration was a record-breaking event at Andhra University. Over 22,000 tribal children performed 108 rounds of Surya Namaskar in 108 minutes, earning a place in the Guinness World Records. The symbolism here was powerful: children from communities that often face social neglect stood at the forefront of a global health movement, radiating discipline, strength and vitality.
This wasn’t just about setting records. It sent out a message that yoga is for everyone, no matter where you come from or what your background may be. It was also a moment of pride for Andhra Pradesh, which positioned itself as the yoga capital of the day.
“Yoga For One Earth, One Health”: A Theme That Speaks To The Times
This year’s theme could not be more relevant. The idea of “One Earth, One Health” suggests that the health of individuals is directly connected to the health of the planet. PM Modi, in his address, emphasised that yoga cultivates mindfulness, which naturally leads to more sustainable lifestyles. When people are more aware of their breath, their habits, and their thoughts, they also become more aware of their surroundings, leading to greater compassion for nature and for others.
In a world recovering from the impact of climate change, pandemics, and social disconnect, the theme is a reminder that wellness should be inclusive and holistic. Personal health cannot be achieved at the cost of environmental damage. Yoga, with its balance of movement, breath, and awareness, can guide people toward more conscious living.
Delhi Floats A New Way To Practice With Yamuna Yoga Boats
In Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta marked the occasion in a unique way, by participating in a yoga session held on boats floating along the Yamuna River. The aim was both symbolic and practical. Symbolic, because it highlighted the need to reconnect with natural water bodies that have long been neglected. Practical, because it tied yoga with the city’s efforts to clean up the Yamuna and offer newer, greener public spaces.
The event attracted large crowds, and the Delhi government ensured facilities like free mats, live screens for virtual participation, and medical support at key locations including Red Fort, Lodhi Garden and Kartavya Path. It’s clear that yoga, even in urban areas, can be integrated into daily routines with a little creative thinking.
Across The Nation: Parks, Ports, Peaks And Palaces
What makes Yoga Day unique is the variety of its locations. From the naval decks at sea to the high-altitude camps of Siachen, the practice travelled far and wide today. In Gujarat, participants performed yoga in floating swimming pools in Surat. In Rajasthan, yoga blended with folk culture as people performed Garba post-asana flows at Ambaji Temple. From temples to town halls, forts to forests, the celebration took many shapes and forms, each meaningful in its own way.
These localised events were not just token participation. They showed how yoga could be adapted into every region’s culture, climate, and community. The armed forces, school children, government officials and villagers alike showed up, giving yoga its most democratic face yet.
What The Data Says: Are Indians Embracing Yoga Daily?
According to recent surveys, around 11 percent of Indians practise yoga daily, and another 13 percent do so occasionally. This leaves a significant percentage who are yet to include yoga in their daily lives. But numbers can often miss the emotional shift. With every passing year, awareness around the benefits of yoga is rising. Whether it’s for managing stress, improving flexibility, or dealing with chronic illnesses, more people are realising that yoga is not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle tool.
Government programmes have begun introducing yoga in schools, wellness centres, and corporate settings. Cities are building dedicated yoga parks, and certification for instructors is being streamlined to maintain quality. The goal is clear: make yoga as accessible as a morning walk.
Also Read: International Yoga Day 2025: A Global Celebration Of Health, Harmony And Heritage
The Role Of Science And Medicine In Modern Yoga
PM Modi also used this occasion to draw attention to scientific validation of yoga. Institutes like AIIMS Delhi have started using yoga as part of treatment for various conditions, from cardiac problems to neurological disorders and mental health challenges. As research grows, yoga is transitioning from ancient anecdotal wisdom to a modern therapeutic practice backed by evidence.
This scientific backing is crucial, especially for young people and sceptics who may not relate to the spiritual aspects of yoga. By integrating yoga into preventive healthcare systems, India is carving a new path that bridges ancient knowledge with future health solutions.
A Day To Reflect, Reset And Reconnect
International Yoga Day 2025 has shown us that yoga is not just about perfecting a pose but about finding balance, in ourselves and with the world around us. Whether it’s tribal children setting world records, prime ministers stretching on beaches, or everyday citizens in their neighbourhood parks, the message is the same: unity through well-being.
Let this day serve as more than just an annual reminder. Let it inspire a deeper, more conscious commitment to our physical, mental and environmental health. Because when you align your breath, your mind follows. And where the mind goes, the world responds.
Happy International Yoga Day 2025. Keep stretching. Keep growing. Keep grounding yourself, on and off the mat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why Is International Yoga Day Celebrated On 21 June?
International Yoga Day is celebrated on 21 June because it marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This day has special significance in yogic tradition, as it represents a shift towards light and energy. The date was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and adopted by the United Nations in 2014.
Q2. What Was Special About Yoga Day 2025?
Yoga Day 2025 was remarkable due to the scale and diversity of participation. The main event was held in Visakhapatnam along a 26-kilometre beach stretch, with over three lakh participants. It also saw a Guinness World Record set by 22,122 tribal children performing 108 Surya Namaskars in 108 minutes. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underlined the link between personal wellness and planetary health.
Q3. How Has International Yoga Day Evolved Over The Years?
Since its first observance in 2015, International Yoga Day has grown from a symbolic gesture into a global health movement. Each year, different themes reflect contemporary concerns, mental health, climate change, inclusivity, and now, planetary wellness. Events are held across schools, military bases, diplomatic missions, parks, and even remote landscapes like the Himalayas or the Arctic Circle.
Q4. Is Yoga Day Only Celebrated In India?
No, International Yoga Day is celebrated globally. Indian embassies, cultural centres, and communities abroad organise events in countries like the United States, Japan, the UK, Australia, and South Africa. This global observance strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy while also promoting yoga as a universal tool for well-being.
Q5. Can Beginners Participate In International Yoga Day Activities?
Absolutely. Most sessions, including those conducted on Yoga Day, are based on the Common Yoga Protocol developed by the Ministry of AYUSH. It includes simple breathing exercises and basic postures suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. Many events also offer guided instructions, making them ideal for beginners.
