Indian Embassy in Türkiye observes International Day of Yoga

By Dilara Hamit

ANKARA (AA) - The International Day of Yoga was observed by India’s Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye’s capital, for the 9th time on Wednesday, with guests participating in an hour-long yoga session with this year's theme of the world is one family, or "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

In the opening address, Ambassador Virander Paul said the art, science, and philosophy of yoga may have originated in India, but it now belongs to the entire world, as its popularity has been steadily increasing around the world.

"Ever since the International Day of Yoga was first celebrated in 2015, a theme is chosen every year to give the day a focus. Last year, it was Yoga for Humanity. It was to highlight the benefits of yoga at a time when the world was beginning to recover from COVID-19; not only from the immediate impact of the pandemic on physical health but also the related psychological and mental suffering that the virus had brought upon humanity," he said.

Paul said this year's theme, Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, is inspired by an expression from an ancient text in the Sanskrit language that means “the world is one family” – one Earth, one family, one future.

"It’s a uniquely ancient Indian philosophical approach of living in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem in a sustainable, holistic, responsible, and inclusive manner. Yoga too contributes to it. Yoga brings people together," he said.

Gerard Karl Waite, the IOM Türkiye representative and acting resident coordinator, also spoke at the event, saying the UN declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in resolution 69/131.

"Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also emphasizes the healing and uniting force yoga at a time the humanity is facing multiple crises including war, forced migration, climate crisis, and deepening inequalities around the world," Waite said.

Following the speeches, attendees were invited to participate in an hour of yoga and a rejuvenating breathing exercise facilitated by two yoga instructors. After the exercises, a delectable spread of Indian cuisine was served to replenish the calories expended by the guests.