(By Prof. S. S. Dogra)Every year, June 21 is celebrated across the globe as the International Day of Yoga. What began as an ancient Indian tradition has today evolved into a worldwide movement for health, wellness and inner balance. For India, the global acceptance of yoga is not only a matter of pride but also a recognition of a priceless civilizational gift that continues to benefit humanity.
The timeless Sanskrit prayer—
“Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah”
(May all be happy, may all be free from illness)
—captures the very essence of yoga. It is not merely a system of physical exercises; it is a holistic approach to life that seeks harmony between the body, mind and spirit.
The significance of yoga has become even more pronounced in today’s fast-paced world, where stress, lifestyle diseases, anxiety and social isolation are increasingly affecting people of all ages. Regular yoga practice offers a simple, affordable and effective way to improve physical fitness, mental well-being and emotional resilience. Unlike many modern wellness trends, yoga requires little infrastructure and can be practiced by people from all walks of life.
The 12th International Day of Yoga in 2026 is being observed under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The theme is particularly relevant as societies across the world confront the challenges of ageing populations and rising healthcare costs. India’s national celebrations, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Kolkata’s historic Red Road, underline the country’s continuing commitment to promoting yoga as a tool for preventive healthcare and healthy living.
This year’s observance has also witnessed several noteworthy initiatives. The Ministry of Ayush has organized synchronized Yoga Sangam sessions across the country, while yoga events are being conducted at one hundred heritage sites in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India. The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) and the MY Bharat platform have further expanded participation through large-scale online and offline programs, reinforcing the vision of “Yoga 365”—the idea that yoga should be practiced throughout the year rather than on a single day.
India’s journey in popularizing yoga has been shaped by the contributions of countless sages, spiritual teachers and yoga practitioners. In recent decades, yoga has received renewed global visibility through the efforts of various institutions and personalities. Equally significant has been the diplomatic initiative that secured international recognition for Yoga Day through the United Nations. Such achievements deserve appreciation because they have elevated a traditional Indian practice into a universal public-health movement.
Unfortunately, yoga occasionally becomes entangled in political or religious debates. Such controversies do little to serve society. Yoga transcends political ideologies and sectarian boundaries. Its benefits are scientific, practical, and universal. Whether one approaches yoga as a health discipline, a fitness routine, or a means of personal growth, its positive impact remains undeniable.The paradox is striking: while yoga studios flourish across Europe, North America and many other parts of the world, sections of Indian society still fail to fully appreciate the value of this ancient heritage. The old saying, “A prophet is often less valued at home,” appears relevant. Countries across the world are embracing yoga to enhance productivity, reduce stress, and improve quality of life, while India sometimes allows unnecessary debates to overshadow its benefits.
Yoga’s contribution extends beyond personal health. In sports, for instance, it helps improve flexibility, balance, concentration, breathing efficiency, and mental toughness—qualities essential for athletic excellence. Incorporating yoga into schools, colleges, universities, workplaces and public institutions can contribute significantly to building a healthier and more productive nation. A physically fit and mentally focused population is better equipped to excel in education, innovation, sports and economic development.
Renowned Yogacharya Gayatri Vashistha rightly emphasizes that yoga should not be reduced to an annual observance. According to her, yoga should become an integral part of daily life, just as eating food is a daily necessity. She recommends practicing yoga between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. for 30 to 90 minutes, depending on individual capacity and schedule. Her observation reflects a broader truth: wellness cannot be achieved through occasional enthusiasm; it requires consistent practice.
Regular yoga, pranayama, Surya Namaskar, Kapalbhati, and Anulom-Vilom have been found beneficial in managing and preventing a range of lifestyle disorders, including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, digestive problems and stress-related conditions. At a time when healthcare systems worldwide are under pressure, preventive practices such as yoga offer a valuable complement to modern medicine.
Perhaps the greatest lesson yoga offers is discipline. In an era when many seek quick success and instant gratification, yoga reminds us that lasting growth comes through patience, self-control and continuous effort. These values are not only important for individual success but are equally essential for nation-building.
As the world celebrates International Yoga Day, the message is clear: yoga should not be viewed through political, religious or ideological lenses. It should be embraced as a universal instrument for health, happiness and social harmony. If adopted sincerely and practiced regularly, yoga can help create a healthier, more resilient and more compassionate society.
My own experience has further reinforced my faith in the transformative power of yoga and meditation. Having learned and practiced Vipassana Meditation, I have incorporated one hour of daily meditation into my lifestyle. This personal journey has helped me better appreciate the profound connection between physical well-being and inner peace.
An important dimension of yoga that deserves greater attention is Vipassana Meditation, one of India’s most ancient meditation techniques. While yoga is often associated with physical postures and breathing exercises, its ultimate objective is the cultivation of mental clarity, self-awareness and inner peace. Vipassana, which means “seeing things as they really are,” enables practitioners to observe their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations with equanimity and mindfulness. In an age marked by stress, anxiety and constant distractions, Vipassana complements yoga by strengthening emotional balance, mental discipline and self-understanding. Together, yoga and meditation offer a holistic pathway toward physical health, psychological well-being and spiritual growth.
The call, therefore, is simple yet profound: Adopt Yoga, and bring happiness, balance and well-being into life.
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