Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – India took center stage on June 21, 2025, spearheading the global observance of the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY). Under the resonant theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the day underscored the intrinsic connection between individual well-being and the health of the planet, reflecting the ancient Indian ethos of “Sarve Santu Niramaya,” meaning “May all be healthy.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebration, participating in a large-scale event held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister joined thousands of participants in performing the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), a standardized sequence of asanas and practices designed for mass participation. The event in Vizag, as the city is colloquially known, drew over 3 lakh attendees, creating a vibrant demonstration of yoga’s unifying power.
Nationwide Mobilization: The ‘Yoga Sangam’ Initiative
The celebration in Visakhapatnam was the focal point of a much broader national effort under the ‘Yoga Sangam’ initiative. This ambitious program aimed for synchronised yoga sessions at over 1 lakh locations nationwide. Organisers projected that this massive mobilisation would involve more than 2 crore participants across the length and breadth of India.
The scale of participation highlights yoga’s deep roots and widespread appeal within India. State governments and local bodies played a crucial role in facilitating these events.
Andhra Pradesh’s Ambitious Undertakings
The host state, Andhra Pradesh, went to significant lengths to ensure the success and visibility of the 11th IDY. The Government of Andhra Pradesh coordinated efforts that included a notable Guinness World Record attempt, details of which were anticipated to be announced pending verification. Additionally, the state government undertook the distribution of over 50 lakh yoga certificates, acknowledging the participation and dedication of citizens across various events.
A particularly inspiring event unfolded at Andhra University, where 25,000 tribal children gathered to perform 108 Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations). This impressive feat was completed within 108 minutes, showcasing the discipline and energy of the younger generation embracing yoga.
Celebrations Across India and Ministry of Ayush Initiatives
Major urban centers also marked the day with widespread enthusiasm. In the national capital, Delhi, events were organised at 109 locations, demonstrating the extensive reach of the celebrations within the city. A main program was held at the historic Red Fort, providing a symbolic backdrop for the practice of yoga.
The Ministry of Ayush, the nodal government body for yoga and traditional Indian systems of medicine, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the nationwide events. The Ministry launched 10 Signature Events specifically for the 11th IDY, designed to promote different facets of yoga and its connection to community and environment. These initiatives included programs such as Yoga Bandhan, focusing on community bonding through yoga, and Harit Yoga, emphasizing the link between yoga and environmental sustainability, aligning with the global theme.
Global Reach and International Participation
The spirit of International Yoga Day transcended national borders, reaching corners of the globe. Indian embassies and cultural centres around the world hosted demonstrations, workshops, and mass participation events, sharing the benefits of yoga with international communities. A significant celebration took place at the UN Headquarters in New York, underscoring yoga’s recognition as a practice promoting peace, harmony, and well-being on a global scale, a testament to its journey from ancient Indian tradition to an internationally celebrated phenomenon.
The 11th International Day of Yoga, led by India with the Prime Minister’s participation in Visakhapatnam and mirrored by millions nationwide and globally, served as a powerful affirmation of yoga’s enduring relevance for fostering individual health and contributing to collective planetary well-being under the banner of “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” The extensive mobilisation and diverse range of events highlighted India’s commitment to promoting yoga as a tool for physical, mental, and spiritual health for all.
