Akshay DidwaniyaAddressing the 12th International Day of Yoga gathering in Kolkata, PM Modi said June 21, Earth’s longest day, is now celebrated globally as Yoga Day.
Yoga Unites Nations, Says PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Sunday that yoga has grown into the world’s biggest community celebration. It now connects people across borders and cultures, he said.
He was addressing the 12th International Day of Yoga event held in Kolkata. PM Modi noted that June 21 the longest day of the year is now known worldwide as Yoga Day.
“June 21, which marks the longest day on Earth, has now become the largest community celebration day because of yoga. Yoga brings people together. I congratulate the people of the world on this occasion,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised Kolkata’s residents for their commitment to the ‘Swachhata Se Swagat’ cleanliness initiative.
Yoga Boosts Health At Every Age
This year’s Yoga Day theme is ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’. PM Modi explained that the ancient practice supports physical fitness and mental wellness. It also encourages active ageing and ultimately, a better quality of life.
“Yoga is not just physical exercise. It is not restricted to any age group. It is an expression of the human spirit,” he said.
PM Modi stressed that healthy ageing deserves real attention. Growing older, he said, should never mean losing one’s full potential.
“When we speak of yoga for healthy ageing, we can work to ensure that age does not reduce human potential,” he said.
“Our target is to be more flexible at 40 than we were at 20. We aim to be more energetic at 50 than we were at 30,” he added.
Make Yoga A Daily Habit, Not An Event
The Prime Minister urged people not to treat yoga as something reserved for special occasions. Instead, he said, it should become a regular part of everyday life.
Pratik Agrawal
Mayur Mohta
Aditya Didwaniya