Despite rain, thousands turn up to perform yoga with PM

Srinagar, June 21: Negotiating valiantly the odds of weather, thousands of spirited Kashmiris, motivated by the energising words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY), on the rain-drenched ground of Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar on Friday. Applauding the spirit of Kashmiris, PM Modi said, “I also saw scores of girls covering themselves with the yoga mat and they remained on the ground. This undaunted spirit of theirs and the love for Yoga is quite appreciable.”

The celebration led by the PM was also attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Union Minister of State for Ayush (Independent Charge) and Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav, along with other dignitaries.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his gratitude to the PM for selecting J&K, particularly Srinagar, as the venue for the 10th IDY main event.

He said that this event had brought a new perspective to the development journey of J&K.

The LG commended the PM’s efforts in promoting yoga on an international level, stating that yoga embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

He emphasised the significance of this year's theme, highlighting the importance of individuals protecting and supporting each other.

LG Sinha quoted 'Puman Pumansam Paripatu Vishwatah' and 'Vyashem Devahitam Yadayu' to stress the importance of charity and unity among humanity.

Referring to Maharishi Patanjali's teachings, he emphasised on the unity of body and mind in yoga practice.

The LG acknowledged the global impact of PM’s vision of 'One Earth One Health' and expressed his appreciation for the PM's efforts in restoring the ancient glory of J&K over the past decade.

In his welcome address, Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav extended his congratulations to the citizens on IDY and expressed his delight in addressing the yoga enthusiasts in Srinagar.

“The Yoga Yatra, initiated in 2015 under the leadership of the PM, has been progressing with ever-increasing enthusiasm without any interruptions,” he said.

Jadhav said that the theme for this year, ‘Yoga for Self and Society’ effectively showcases the transformative influence of yoga.

“Yoga serves as a unifying force across all segments of society, injecting vitality into the community. Not only does Yoga contribute to our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, but also it fosters unity and welfare within society. Furthermore, Yoga aids in boosting our confidence and morale,” he said.

The minister expressed his joy regarding the new initiatives launched on IDY 2024, labelling it as a distinctive global occasion.

He encouraged everyone to incorporate yoga into their daily routines, emphasising the importance of integrating yoga into their lives for personal and societal benefits.

“The entire nation celebrated this year's ceremony with immense joy and enthusiasm,” Jadhav said.

This year, the IDY is hosting various events, including the ‘Yoga for Space’ initiative, which is being supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The programme, which focuses on the practice of Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), was conducted simultaneously at all ISRO centres and units.

Additionally, the team involved in the Gaganyaan project actively took part in the programme.

Various embassies and Indian missions around the world also celebrated IDY, highlighting the extensive reach of yoga.

The CCRYN, under the Ministry of Ayush, in collaboration with PGIMER, Chandigarh, has been recognised by the Asia Book of Records for involving the highest number of healthcare professionals performing CYP in IDY 2024.

The Ministry of Ayush in Delhi has collaborated with NDMC, ASI, and DDA to organise large-scale yoga events.

To engage a wider audience, the Ministry of Ayush has introduced various competitions and activities, such as the ‘Yoga with Family’ video contest in partnership with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on the MyGov and MyBharat platforms.

This contest aims to inspire families worldwide to demonstrate the joy of yoga and strengthen familial bonds.

Submissions for this contest have to be made by June 30, 2024.

Participants in the #YogaWithFamily video contest have the opportunity to win exciting prizes while promoting the message of health and unity through yoga.

Notable hashtags for the event include #InternationalDayofYoga2024, #YogaForSelfAndSociety, #YogaWithFamily, and #IDY2024.

Individuals from all corners of the world have been encouraged to utilise these hashtags and join in this global celebration of yoga.