<p>Ahead of the much-awaited Yoga Day celebrations, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Csaba Kőrösi said that all Guinness Records would be broken when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the event at UN headquarters in New York.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION, Kőrösi said that the yoga session is expected to witness a massive attendance with leading personalities and envoys from at least 180 countries participating in the event.</p>

<p>“I think we are very close to breaking the Guinness Record tomorrow (June 21)&nbsp;while doing yoga at UN headquarters and around New York and at the same time with the largest number of people.”</p>

<p>Describing the importance of doing yoga, the UNGA chief said that the ancient Indian practice has a valuable lesson to teach humans in modern times.</p>

<p>“What yoga tells us all—though I am not a good practitioner—is that the forces and energies out there in the universe and in us are the same. And these energies try to achieve the same balance.”</p>

<p>“There’s an important message for all of us doing yoga: non-violence, non-greed, not overusing resources and persevering on what we have from our ancestors, and keeping everything in balance.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"We are very close to breaking the Guinness Record tomorrow"<br />
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UNGA President <a href="https://twitter.com/Csaba_Korosi_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Csaba_Korosi_</a> talks to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MollyGambhir</a> as he underlines the preparations for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay</a> celebrations at UN HQ. The celebrations will be led by Indian PM Modi.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModiInUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModiInUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/wFVn0Z7kdU">pic.twitter.com/wFVn0Z7kdU</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1671350253814177794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Modi to lead unique session</strong></h2>

<p>On June 21 (US time), PM Modi will lead a unique yoga session to commemorate the 9th International Day of Yoga at the UN Headquarters.</p>

<p>Prominent individuals from the UN and envoys from across the world are expected to partake.</p>

<p>This will be the first time that the Indian leader will lead the yoga session from the United Nations General Assembly podium ever since Modi got the international organisation to mark June 21 as Yoga Day.</p>

<p>On Monday, India’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj told WION that it is one of the most anticipated events.</p>

<p>There are three things why I think this year’s yoga day is significant. First and foremost is the very inclusive aspect of it, because all 195 countries are expected to participate in it. This event sort of unites people with different cultural backgrounds. Second is the alignment of yoga with the UN sustainable development goals with an emphasis on health and well-being, as yoga aligns well with SDG 3 (health), and SDG 4 (Education).”</p>

<p>“And with its emphasis on mindfulness, and being very conscious of oneself and the environment, it is also related to SDG Goal 12 (mindful consumption and production) and SDG Goal 13 (environment),” Kamboj told WION.</p>

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Ahead of the much-awaited Yoga Day celebrations, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Csaba Kőrösi said that all Guinness Records would be broken when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the event at UN headquarters in New York.

Ahead of the much-awaited Yoga Day celebrations, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Csaba Kőrösi said that all Guinness Records would be broken when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the event at UN headquarters in New York. Speaking to WION, Kőrösi said that the yoga session is expected to witness a massive attendance with leading personalities and envoys from at least 180 countries participating in the event. “I think we are very close to breaking the Guinness Record tomorrow (June 21) while doing yoga at UN headquarters and around New York and at the same time with the largest number of people.” Describing the importance of doing yoga, the UNGA chief said that the ancient Indian practice has a valuable lesson to teach humans in modern times. “What yoga tells us all—though I am not a good practitioner—is that the forces and energies out there in the universe and in us are the same. And these energies try to achieve the same balance.” “There’s an important message for all of us doing yoga: non-violence, non-greed, not overusing resources and persevering on what we have from our ancestors, and keeping everything in balance.” "We are very close to breaking the Guinness Record tomorrow" UNGA President @Csaba_Korosi_ talks to WION's @MollyGambhir as he underlines the preparations for #YogaDay celebrations at UN HQ. The celebrations will be led by Indian PM Modi.#ModiInUS pic.twitter.com/wFVn0Z7kdU — WION (@WIONews) June 21, 2023 × Modi to lead unique session On June 21 (US time), PM Modi will lead a unique yoga session to commemorate the 9th International Day of Yoga at the UN Headquarters. Prominent individuals from the UN and envoys from across the world are expected to partake. This will be the first time that the Indian leader will lead the yoga session from the United Nations General Assembly podium ever since Modi got the international organisation to mark June 21 as Yoga Day. On Monday, India’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj told WION that it is one of the most anticipated events. There are three things why I think this year’s yoga day is significant. First and foremost is the very inclusive aspect of it, because all 195 countries are expected to participate in it. This event sort of unites people with different cultural backgrounds. Second is the alignment of yoga with the UN sustainable development goals with an emphasis on health and well-being, as yoga aligns well with SDG 3 (health), and SDG 4 (Education).” “And with its emphasis on mindfulness, and being very conscious of oneself and the environment, it is also related to SDG Goal 12 (mindful consumption and production) and SDG Goal 13 (environment),” Kamboj told WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Very close to breaking Guinness Record’: UNGA chief to WION on yoga event at UN

<p>Maldives govt on Tuesday was quick to condemn the yoga day violence, even as President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced an investigation. The Maldives foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement condemned the "violent acts perpetrated by a group of individuals targeting the participants, including members of the diplomatic community". The statement emphasized that "such malicious acts of violence aimed at disrupting public safety and undermining security of individuals and the diplomatic corps will not be tolerated".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dramatic visual emerged as Yoga Day event was disrupted by extremist elements in Maldives' national capital Male. The Yoga Day event was organized by Indian High Commission in Maldives, along with Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and UN Maldives. Maldivian Minister of Youth and Sports, Indian High commissioner and Maldives Foreign Secretary were present as were many High Commissioners and UN resident coordinator when the shocking incident happened involving the attack on Yoga practitioners.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-presidential-election-2022-bjp-led-nda-picks-draupadi-murmu-as-candidate-490403">Indian Presidential Election: BJP-led NDA picks Draupadi Murmu as candidate</a></p>

<p>Maldives President had taken to twitter over the incident, calling it a "matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law."&nbsp;The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has launched a high priority investigation into the incident. The Serious and Organized Crime Department of the Crime Investigation Command is investigating this incident and 6 people have been taken into custody. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Police has said Opposition Party Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) had a role in the act of violence. A statement by the Police department said, "As of now, the evidence indicates that the demonstrators were using items taken from the office of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM)." The PPM party is led by Maldives President Yameen who is known for his anti-India views and spearheaded the so-called India out campaign. During his tenure, he had taken a distinctly pro-China stance, something that is being attributed the debt crisis in the country.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An investigation has been launched by <a href="https://twitter.com/PoliceMv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PoliceMv</a> into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium.<br />
<br />
This is being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law.</p>
— Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih/status/1539117697157713921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>International Yoga Day is celebrated on the 21st of June every year. The United Nations declared the day as International Day of Yoga by consensus on 11 December 2014, through a resolution which was co-sponsored by a record of 177 countries, including the Maldives.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speaking to Wion, Ali Nazeer, Maldives minister of state for home affairs and spokesperson of Adhaalath party said, 'Maldives police service is investigating the incident" &amp; "key individuals involved are under police custody". He explained, "we believe that this act of violence is aimed at achieving political end. And involvement of political opposition (PPM) in this is worrying".</p>


Maldives govt on Tuesday was quick to condemn the yoga day violence, even as President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced an investigation. The Maldives foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement condemned the "violent acts perpetrated by a group of individuals targeting the participants, including members of the diplomatic community".

Maldives govt on Tuesday was quick to condemn the yoga day violence, even as President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced an investigation. The Maldives foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement condemned the "violent acts perpetrated by a group of individuals targeting the participants, including members of the diplomatic community". The statement emphasized that "such malicious acts of violence aimed at disrupting public safety and undermining security of individuals and the diplomatic corps will not be tolerated". Dramatic visual emerged as Yoga Day event was disrupted by extremist elements in Maldives' national capital Male. The Yoga Day event was organized by Indian High Commission in Maldives, along with Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and UN Maldives. Maldivian Minister of Youth and Sports, Indian High commissioner and Maldives Foreign Secretary were present as were many High Commissioners and UN resident coordinator when the shocking incident happened involving the attack on Yoga practitioners. Also read | Indian Presidential Election: BJP-led NDA picks Draupadi Murmu as candidate Maldives President had taken to twitter over the incident, calling it a "matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law." The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has launched a high priority investigation into the incident. The Serious and Organized Crime Department of the Crime Investigation Command is investigating this incident and 6 people have been taken into custody. Police has said Opposition Party Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) had a role in the act of violence. A statement by the Police department said, "As of now, the evidence indicates that the demonstrators were using items taken from the office of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM)." The PPM party is led by Maldives President Yameen who is known for his anti-India views and spearheaded the so-called India out campaign. During his tenure, he had taken a distinctly pro-China stance, something that is being attributed the debt crisis in the country. An investigation has been launched by @PoliceMv into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium. This is being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law. — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) June 21, 2022 × International Yoga Day is celebrated on the 21st of June every year. The United Nations declared the day as International Day of Yoga by consensus on 11 December 2014, through a resolution which was co-sponsored by a record of 177 countries, including the Maldives. Meanwhile, speaking to Wion, Ali Nazeer, Maldives minister of state for home affairs and spokesperson of Adhaalath party said, 'Maldives police service is investigating the incident" & "key individuals involved are under police custody". He explained, "we believe that this act of violence is aimed at achieving political end. And involvement of political opposition (PPM) in this is worrying".

Maldives government condemns Yoga Day violence; six taken into custody

If you switch on the television today, log on to social media. Step out to parks, wellness centers or gymnasiums, you'll see someone performing an asan or a yoga posture. Celebrities, politicians, policy makers, global leaders are all practicing Yoga. Today's International Yoga day this year's theme is 'Yoga for humanity'.

The Good Life: Yoga is not a trend but a lifestyle | Celebrating International Yoga Day

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the people on Yoga Day asserting that Yoga has become a "base for world cooperation".</p>

<p>"Yoga has come out of homes and intellectual centres to every corner of the world," the Indian prime minister said, adding, "Yoga has become a festival. This year's theme of Yoga Day is 'Yoga for humanity'."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-yoga-day-2022-yoga-for-humanity-a-mission-to-achieve-holistic-health-489897">Also Read |&nbsp;International Yoga Day 2022: ‘Yoga for Humanity’ a mission to achieve holistic health</a></p>

<p>PM Modi arrived at Mysuru Palace ground early on Tuesday morning where he will perform Yoga. The Indian prime minister was accompanied by CM Basavaraj Bommai and Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Meet the Nouf Marwaai who brought Yoga to Saudi Arabia</strong></p>

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<p>"Yoga brings peace for us. Yoga brings peace to our society, our world and our universe. Yoga builds self-awareness."</p>

<p>"The peace from Yoga is not only for individuals, it brings peace to our nations and the world," India's prime minister added.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the people on Yoga Day asserting that Yoga has become a "base for world cooperation". "Yoga has come out of homes and intellectual centres to every corner of the world," the Indian prime minister said, adding, "Yoga has become a festival.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the people on Yoga Day asserting that Yoga has become a "base for world cooperation". "Yoga has come out of homes and intellectual centres to every corner of the world," the Indian prime minister said, adding, "Yoga has become a festival. This year's theme of Yoga Day is 'Yoga for humanity'." Also Read | International Yoga Day 2022: ‘Yoga for Humanity’ a mission to achieve holistic health PM Modi arrived at Mysuru Palace ground early on Tuesday morning where he will perform Yoga. The Indian prime minister was accompanied by CM Basavaraj Bommai and Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Watch: Meet the Nouf Marwaai who brought Yoga to Saudi Arabia "Yoga brings peace for us. Yoga brings peace to our society, our world and our universe. Yoga builds self-awareness." "The peace from Yoga is not only for individuals, it brings peace to our nations and the world," India's prime minister added. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yoga has come out of intellectual centres to every corner of the world, says PM Modi on Yoga Day

International Yoga Day 2022: Shilpa Shetty to Kareena Kapoor, Bollywood divas who practice Yoga 

<p>Yoga Day event was disrupted by extremist elements in Maldives on Tuesday. Dramatic footage showed a mob barging into Galolhu stadium as people were performing yoga. The extremists also&nbsp;attacked the people, who were forced to flee. No serious injuries were reported in the incident.</p>

<p>The Yoga Day event was organised by Indian High Commission in Maldives, along with Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and UN Maldives. Maldivian Minister of Youth and Sports, Indian High commissioner and Maldives Foreign Secretary were present along with many high commissioners and UN resident coordinator when the shocking incident happened. Later, the event was resumed and successfully completed.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dramatic visuals from Maldives as group of extremists disrupt Yoga Day celebrations organised in capital Male <a href="https://t.co/es9q3y5g2o">pic.twitter.com/es9q3y5g2o</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1539120088388972544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced an investigation into the incident. The president in a tweet said, "An investigation has been launched by Maldives Police into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium", highlighting that it is "being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An investigation has been launched by <a href="https://twitter.com/PoliceMv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PoliceMv</a> into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium.<br />
<br />
This is being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law.</p>
— Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih/status/1539117697157713921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Maldives Police is expected to issue a statement shortly. While so far no one has taken responsibility of the incident, indications are former Maldives President Yameen&nbsp;and his party PPM may be behind it. He is known for his anti-India views and has been spearheading the so-called India out campaign.</p>

<p>Ali Nazeer, Minister of State for Home Affairs and spokesperson of Adhaalath party told WION, "Maldives police is investigating the incident&nbsp;and key individuals involved are under police custody". He explained, "we believe that this act of violence is aimed at achieving political end. And involvement of political opposition (PPM) in this is worrying".</p>


Yoga Day event was disrupted by extremist elements in Maldives on Tuesday. Dramatic footage showed a mob barging into Galolhu stadium as people were performing yoga.

Yoga Day event was disrupted by extremist elements in Maldives on Tuesday. Dramatic footage showed a mob barging into Galolhu stadium as people were performing yoga. The extremists also attacked the people, who were forced to flee. No serious injuries were reported in the incident. The Yoga Day event was organised by Indian High Commission in Maldives, along with Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and UN Maldives. Maldivian Minister of Youth and Sports, Indian High commissioner and Maldives Foreign Secretary were present along with many high commissioners and UN resident coordinator when the shocking incident happened. Later, the event was resumed and successfully completed. Dramatic visuals from Maldives as group of extremists disrupt Yoga Day celebrations organised in capital Male pic.twitter.com/es9q3y5g2o — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 21, 2022 × Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced an investigation into the incident. The president in a tweet said, "An investigation has been launched by Maldives Police into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium", highlighting that it is "being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law." An investigation has been launched by @PoliceMv into the incident that happened this morning at Galolhu stadium. This is being treated as a matter of serious concern and those responsible will be swiftly brought before the law. — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) June 21, 2022 × Maldives Police is expected to issue a statement shortly. While so far no one has taken responsibility of the incident, indications are former Maldives President Yameen and his party PPM may be behind it. He is known for his anti-India views and has been spearheading the so-called India out campaign. Ali Nazeer, Minister of State for Home Affairs and spokesperson of Adhaalath party told WION, "Maldives police is investigating the incident and key individuals involved are under police custody". He explained, "we believe that this act of violence is aimed at achieving political end. And involvement of political opposition (PPM) in this is worrying".

Watch: Extremists disrupt International Yoga Day event in Maldives

300 million people practice Yoga around the World. It is India's tool for cultural diplomacy, and very different from South Korea's K-Pop or Japan's technology. Unlike China's Confucius centres, Yoga comes with no underlying designs. Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: International Yoga Day, 2021

International Yoga Day 2021: Here's how world is celebrating the holistic art of healthy living

International Yoga Day is marked every year on June 21 with much passion. WION brings you how people across the globe are celebrating the global event this year amid the pandemic.

Millions of people across the globe celebrated 7th International Yoga Day

<p>On International Yoga Day, scores of celebrations were held across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Huge participation of the local youth was seen in these events across the Valley.</p>

<p>Army, Police, CRPF, politicians, students&nbsp;and civilians organised events across to celebrate the day.</p>

<p>Due to the pandemic, SOP's were followed while celebrating the day. Last year all events were cancelled due to the pandemic. In Srinagar's famous Nehru Park in the middle of the Dal lake, youngsters held yoga sessions with the help of the Indian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Being a sports person, I think yoga is most important. We practice Yoga every day. I am happy to see people participating. It's not popular in Kashmir but I am happy to see people showing interest. I hope in the future this culture is promoted. Since the epidemic started we are seeing a rise in cases of depression, anxiety and suicides, I was also suffering from anxiety and being a sportsperson, It's very hard for you when you go for competitions. Yoga helps me calm down,'' said Afreen Haider, instructor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The youngsters in Kashmir Valley say for mental relaxation, yoga is one of the most important exercises. The participation this time was huge and people responded in a very positive way. &nbsp;</p>

<p>''We want to spread a message of peace and harmony through yoga, we believe that yoga is not only an exercise or yoga is more to do with religion. It's more of mental fitness. I would say the youth should develop healthy habits&nbsp;and involve themselves in sports activities,&nbsp;'' said Faiz Dijjoo, organiser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pandemic has left everyone with anxiety and depression. People across the world were confined to their homes which led to a lot of mental pressure. The student community feels that to relieve yourself of the pressure, yoga is an important exercise. &nbsp;</p>

<p>''Yoga is very important for us, It's good for both mental and physical fitness. We have witnessed a pandemic and people are sitting at home. No one is able to go to work and schools are shut. We request people to do yoga for good mental and physical health. It helps us to overcome depression,” said 'Samreen Khan, a student.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Participation of the youngsters was applauded by the administration of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>


On International Yoga Day, scores of celebrations were held across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Huge participation of the local youth was seen in these events across the Valley.

On International Yoga Day, scores of celebrations were held across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Huge participation of the local youth was seen in these events across the Valley. Army, Police, CRPF, politicians, students and civilians organised events across to celebrate the day. Due to the pandemic, SOP's were followed while celebrating the day. Last year all events were cancelled due to the pandemic. In Srinagar's famous Nehru Park in the middle of the Dal lake, youngsters held yoga sessions with the help of the Indian Army. ''Being a sports person, I think yoga is most important. We practice Yoga every day. I am happy to see people participating. It's not popular in Kashmir but I am happy to see people showing interest. I hope in the future this culture is promoted. Since the epidemic started we are seeing a rise in cases of depression, anxiety and suicides, I was also suffering from anxiety and being a sportsperson, It's very hard for you when you go for competitions. Yoga helps me calm down,'' said Afreen Haider, instructor. The youngsters in Kashmir Valley say for mental relaxation, yoga is one of the most important exercises. The participation this time was huge and people responded in a very positive way. ''We want to spread a message of peace and harmony through yoga, we believe that yoga is not only an exercise or yoga is more to do with religion. It's more of mental fitness. I would say the youth should develop healthy habits and involve themselves in sports activities, '' said Faiz Dijjoo, organiser. The pandemic has left everyone with anxiety and depression. People across the world were confined to their homes which led to a lot of mental pressure. The student community feels that to relieve yourself of the pressure, yoga is an important exercise. ''Yoga is very important for us, It's good for both mental and physical fitness. We have witnessed a pandemic and people are sitting at home. No one is able to go to work and schools are shut. We request people to do yoga for good mental and physical health. It helps us to overcome depression,” said 'Samreen Khan, a student. Participation of the youngsters was applauded by the administration of Jammu and Kashmir.

International Yoga Day celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir

Similar to the previous years, the ITBP personnel performed Yoga on different high altitude border outposts in Ladakh ranging from 13,000 to 18,000 feet.

ITBP Personnel perform Yoga in Ladakh's icy heights

On International Yoga Day 2020, Indian Army Men practice yoga in the height of Himalayas. Watch this video to get more on this.

International Yoga Day 2020: Indian Army Men practice yoga in the height of Himalayas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. said Pranayam helps improve immunity for our respiratory system which will be useful in fighting COVID-19 virus.

International Yoga Day 2020: PM Modi urges for 'Yoga at home'; says, "it's a day one oneness"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Pranayam helps improve immunity for our respiratory system which will be useful in fighting COVID-19 virus.

'It's a day of oneness & humanness' says PM Modi while addressing nation on Yoga Day

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel beating all odds performed asanas at an altitude of 18,000 feet, in sub-zero temperatures in Ladakh.

ITBP personnel perform yoga at Thiksey Monastery in Leh on International Yoga Day

International Yoga Day 2019: UN Celebrates 5th International Yoga Day. UN headquarters also lit up on International yoga day. Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day 2019: UN Celebrates 5th International Yoga Day

French Embassy also celebrated 5th international Yoga Day.Yoga is popular on all days and not just on Yoga day.French seem to be enamoured of this Indian way of life. Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day 2019: French Embassy Celebrates Yoga Day

<p>Mr SN Yadav, my yoga teacher, learnt his ropes under famous and much controversial Dhirendra Brahmachari. He continues to practice yoga and heal people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The healing is also accompanied by long rounds of preaching the virtue of the yogic traditions in India which can be both amusing and irritating at the same time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, in one of the usual conversation which I had with him during a therapy session about Yoga, in general, made me see the whole PM Narendra Modi-led campaign in a different light.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
When I asked, what has changed under Modi when it comes to yoga, he said, “Respect.” The conversation was long but the message was clear that something indeed changed under Narendra Modi. Though yoga cannot be attributed to any person, group or government, but the push made by Narendra Modi did make yoga attain visibility and respect across the globe. A simple act of lending himself to the act of Yoga in public made the ancient art respectable with the Indian elite.</p>

<p>I asked him what does he mean by respect? He said,” Earlier hospitals would not entertain the idea of alternative healing. Today, every hospital invites us for alternative healing. Medical fraternity too has understood that Yoga does not compete with any system of knowledge. It only adds to it.”</p>

<p>There are photographs of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru doing Yoga and Indira Gandhi patronising Dhirendra Brahmachari, but a personalised push supported by both organisation and government was absent owing to the fact that many people associated yoga with Hinduism.</p>

<p>Lastly, when I asked him, what was the idea of yoga in 70s and 80s when you started your work, he said,” People thought Yoga is all about old people and ascetics and never thought in terms of it being an intrinsic part of modern daily life.”</p>

<p>It is for this reason, the public practice of yoga became such a polarising issue. But down the years, the critics have reduced and participation of people has increased. My understanding is that yoga has found space within the rubric of positive nationalism too which makes a claim to India’s rich historical ancient legacy.</p>

<p>Yoga is reflecting a larger temperamental shift, wherein faith from the ancient civilizational perspective is reclaiming its lost space in the politics, culture, literature and society.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This shift is a rejection of the idea of ‘French secularism’ which many political parties feel is still workable in Indian democracy. It is not. The former was about separation of the church and the state whereas the Indian experience of living together (as religious communities) is about peaceful co-existence which does not come at the expense of public affirmation of <em>Sanatan Dharma</em> and practices and art, directly and indirectly, connected to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today, India has stamped its ownership on Yoga and the credit, definitely, goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;Narendra Modi helped&nbsp;yoga&nbsp;attain&nbsp;the global status it deserved.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Mr SN Yadav, my yoga teacher, learnt his ropes under famous and much controversial Dhirendra Brahmachari. He continues to practice yoga and heal people. The healing is also accompanied by long rounds of preaching the virtue of the yogic traditions in India which can be both amusing and irritating at the same time.

Mr SN Yadav, my yoga teacher, learnt his ropes under famous and much controversial Dhirendra Brahmachari. He continues to practice yoga and heal people. The healing is also accompanied by long rounds of preaching the virtue of the yogic traditions in India which can be both amusing and irritating at the same time. But, in one of the usual conversation which I had with him during a therapy session about Yoga, in general, made me see the whole PM Narendra Modi-led campaign in a different light. When I asked, what has changed under Modi when it comes to yoga, he said, “Respect.” The conversation was long but the message was clear that something indeed changed under Narendra Modi. Though yoga cannot be attributed to any person, group or government, but the push made by Narendra Modi did make yoga attain visibility and respect across the globe. A simple act of lending himself to the act of Yoga in public made the ancient art respectable with the Indian elite. I asked him what does he mean by respect? He said,” Earlier hospitals would not entertain the idea of alternative healing. Today, every hospital invites us for alternative healing. Medical fraternity too has understood that Yoga does not compete with any system of knowledge. It only adds to it.” There are photographs of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru doing Yoga and Indira Gandhi patronising Dhirendra Brahmachari, but a personalised push supported by both organisation and government was absent owing to the fact that many people associated yoga with Hinduism. Lastly, when I asked him, what was the idea of yoga in 70s and 80s when you started your work, he said,” People thought Yoga is all about old people and ascetics and never thought in terms of it being an intrinsic part of modern daily life.” It is for this reason, the public practice of yoga became such a polarising issue. But down the years, the critics have reduced and participation of people has increased. My understanding is that yoga has found space within the rubric of positive nationalism too which makes a claim to India’s rich historical ancient legacy. Yoga is reflecting a larger temperamental shift, wherein faith from the ancient civilizational perspective is reclaiming its lost space in the politics, culture, literature and society. This shift is a rejection of the idea of ‘French secularism’ which many political parties feel is still workable in Indian democracy. It is not. The former was about separation of the church and the state whereas the Indian experience of living together (as religious communities) is about peaceful co-existence which does not come at the expense of public affirmation of Sanatan Dharma and practices and art, directly and indirectly, connected to it. Today, India has stamped its ownership on Yoga and the credit, definitely, goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Narendra Modi helped yoga attain the global status it deserved. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Blog: Yoga fever grips the world and the credit goes to Narendra Modi

<p>Congress president Rahul Gandhi was trolled today for a tweet mocking the International Yoga Day. Gandhi shared a collage of photos showing Indian Army's dog unit performing different yoga poses with their trainers.</p>

<p>The caption of the tweet said "New India".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">New India. <a href="https://t.co/10yDJJVAHD">pic.twitter.com/10yDJJVAHD</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1142019983485988864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitterati slammed Gandhi for the tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Absolutely unnecessary tweet. You could have said it better with this <a href="https://t.co/DSD6uldg9R">pic.twitter.com/DSD6uldg9R</a></p>
— sarvarta (@sarvarta) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarvarta/status/1142020664284594176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You have lost it completely... your SM team is useful only to degrade the country and its citizens. What a waste you turned out to be. Om Shanti!!</p>
— Wolverine_Rider 🇮🇳 (@Wolverine_201) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wolverine_201/status/1142024406333456391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Rahul ghandhi ji apko ye tweet delete karni chahiye</p>
— Patel Aniket Gurjar (@PatelAniketGur4) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatelAniketGur4/status/1142024921364590593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>From the United Nations to the Indian Parliament premises and from Beijing to Ranchi, thousands of people stretched and twisted, breathed in and breathed out, reached for the skies and bent to touch their toes as India and the world marked the fifth <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-for-heart-care-this-years-theme-pm-modi-in-ranchi-229057">International Day of Yoga</a> on Friday.</p>

<p>The ancient wellness regime was the theme and its enthusiasts on the mat - literally - performing poses simple and complex amid chants of "Om" and "Shanti" in several global capitals and across towns and villages in India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the observance of the day.</p>

<p>The United Nations General Assembly adopted June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014 on a proposal mooted by Modi.</p>

<p>While Modi led the celebrations in Ranchi, the capital of eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, his ministers spread out across the country with Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-credits-pm-narendra-modi-for-taking-yoga-to-the-world-229203">Amit Shah</a> participating in a function in Rohtak, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital, where many hundreds did yoga in the rolling greens of Rajpath, and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in Nagpur.</p>

<p>The world joined in in marking the day.</p>

<p>In a first of its kind yoga celebration, the iconic General Assembly hall of the United Nations reverberated with chants of 'Om' and 'Shanti' as UN officials and diplomats joined hundreds of others to commemorate the day.</p>


Congress president Rahul Gandhi was trolled today for a tweet mocking the International Yoga Day. Gandhi shared a collage of photos showing Indian Army's dog unit performing different yoga poses with their trainers.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi was trolled today for a tweet mocking the International Yoga Day. Gandhi shared a collage of photos showing Indian Army's dog unit performing different yoga poses with their trainers. The caption of the tweet said "New India". New India. pic.twitter.com/10yDJJVAHD — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 21, 2019 × Twitterati slammed Gandhi for the tweet. Absolutely unnecessary tweet. You could have said it better with this pic.twitter.com/DSD6uldg9R — sarvarta (@sarvarta) June 21, 2019 × You have lost it completely... your SM team is useful only to degrade the country and its citizens. What a waste you turned out to be. Om Shanti!! — Wolverine_Rider 🇮🇳 (@Wolverine_201) June 21, 2019 × Rahul ghandhi ji apko ye tweet delete karni chahiye — Patel Aniket Gurjar (@PatelAniketGur4) June 21, 2019 × From the United Nations to the Indian Parliament premises and from Beijing to Ranchi, thousands of people stretched and twisted, breathed in and breathed out, reached for the skies and bent to touch their toes as India and the world marked the fifth International Day of Yoga on Friday. The ancient wellness regime was the theme and its enthusiasts on the mat - literally - performing poses simple and complex amid chants of "Om" and "Shanti" in several global capitals and across towns and villages in India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the observance of the day. The United Nations General Assembly adopted June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014 on a proposal mooted by Modi. While Modi led the celebrations in Ranchi, the capital of eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, his ministers spread out across the country with Home Minister Amit Shah participating in a function in Rohtak, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital, where many hundreds did yoga in the rolling greens of Rajpath, and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in Nagpur. The world joined in in marking the day. In a first of its kind yoga celebration, the iconic General Assembly hall of the United Nations reverberated with chants of 'Om' and 'Shanti' as UN officials and diplomats joined hundreds of others to commemorate the day.

'New India': Rahul Gandhi's tweet on Yoga Day slammed by Twitterati

Venezuelan Envoy and her husband both are big Yoga advocates. In exclusive talk with WION, Venezuelan Envoy said that Even 70 years old are practising Yoga. It's really great to practice it with colleagues. She also said that Their National power company is also promoting Yoga day. Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day 2019: Venezuelan Envoy said, Their National Power Company Promoting Yoga Day

In exclusive talk with WION, Israeli Envoy said that one feels great after practising Yoga everyday. He also said that He is practising Yoga for 20 years now. Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day 2019: Israel Envoy says, ''Yoga balances not only your body but also mind''

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-pose-international-yoga-day-stretches-around-world-146050">International Day of Yoga</a> from Ranchi on Friday with all arrangements being in place at the Prabhat Tara ground.</p>

<p>Since 2015, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21.</p>

<p>Yoga connects people and with the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi world has adopted yoga, an official release quoting Chief Minister Raghubar Das said in Ranchi on&nbsp;Thursday.</p>

<p>It is a matter of great pride that the Prime Minister will participate in the main programme of International Yoga Day in Ranchi. The state government is putting all efforts to make the programme success. Good arrangements have been made for the participants, Das said.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/can-you-guess-who-took-yoga-to-the-west-294#the-yoga-travels-from-east-to-west-50266">Indian masters who got West hooked on Yoga</a></p>

<p>During one of his previous yoga day speeches, the Prime Minister had said yoga has become one of the most powerful unifying forces in the world.<br />
The Prime Minister will reach Ranchi Thursday night, stay at the Raj Bhavan and participate in the fifth International Yoga day programme at 6am Friday, according to an official communique.</p>

<p>Adequate security arrangements have been made as over 40,000 yoga enthusiasts are expected to take part, an official release said.</p>

<p>Gates will be opened at 3am With free bus service, which will start Thursday night, it said.</p>

<p>A total 400 make-shift toilets, over 200 drinking water kiosks, eight medical teams, 21 ambulances, jawans of NDRF and more than 100 CCTV cameras are in place at the venue adjacent to the Prabhat Tara school.</p>

<p>A total of 28 display screens have been installed at the venue for live telecast of the event.</p>

<p>This year's slogan is --- Yoga for Heart-.</p>

<p>Besides the chief minister, Governor Droupadi Murmu, Union Minister of state (Independent) for AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik and Jharkhand Health Minister Ramchandra Chandravanshi will share the stage with the Prime Minister, the communique said.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the International Day of Yoga from Ranchi on Friday with all arrangements being in place at the Prabhat Tara ground. Since 2015, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the International Day of Yoga from Ranchi on Friday with all arrangements being in place at the Prabhat Tara ground. Since 2015, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21. Yoga connects people and with the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi world has adopted yoga, an official release quoting Chief Minister Raghubar Das said in Ranchi on Thursday. It is a matter of great pride that the Prime Minister will participate in the main programme of International Yoga Day in Ranchi. The state government is putting all efforts to make the programme success. Good arrangements have been made for the participants, Das said. Also read: Indian masters who got West hooked on Yoga During one of his previous yoga day speeches, the Prime Minister had said yoga has become one of the most powerful unifying forces in the world. The Prime Minister will reach Ranchi Thursday night, stay at the Raj Bhavan and participate in the fifth International Yoga day programme at 6am Friday, according to an official communique. Adequate security arrangements have been made as over 40,000 yoga enthusiasts are expected to take part, an official release said. Gates will be opened at 3am With free bus service, which will start Thursday night, it said. A total 400 make-shift toilets, over 200 drinking water kiosks, eight medical teams, 21 ambulances, jawans of NDRF and more than 100 CCTV cameras are in place at the venue adjacent to the Prabhat Tara school. A total of 28 display screens have been installed at the venue for live telecast of the event. This year's slogan is --- Yoga for Heart-. Besides the chief minister, Governor Droupadi Murmu, Union Minister of state (Independent) for AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik and Jharkhand Health Minister Ramchandra Chandravanshi will share the stage with the Prime Minister, the communique said.

PM Modi to lead International Yoga day celebration at Ranchi

<p>Ahead of the fifth leg of the Yoga Day celebration this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-twitter-facebook-profile-updated-minutes-before-he-took-oath-222892">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Wednesday tweeted out an animated video on Trikonasana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video, which runs for over 2 minutes, features an animated avatar of the prime minister. A step-by-step guide to doing the pose is exhibited in the video which follows the numerous benefits the pose renders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his tweet, which carries the video, the prime minister urged everyone to make yoga part of their lifestyle.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On 21st June, we will mark <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay2019</a>.<br />
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I urge you all to make Yoga an integral part of your life and also inspire others to do the same.<br />
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The benefits of Yoga are tremendous.<br />
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Here is a video on Trikonasana. <a href="https://t.co/YDB6T3rw1d">pic.twitter.com/YDB6T3rw1d</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1136109150134505472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I urge you all to make Yoga an integral part of your life and also inspire others to do the same. The benefits of Yoga are tremendous," his tweet read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trikonasana is one of the easiest poses that beginners could start with and incorporate in their daily routine. Apart from calming the body and working on the excess fat around the waistline, regular practice of the posture aids weight loss, enhances flexibility, alleviates lower back pain and strengthens muscles around the back as well as the thighs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his last term, PM Modi was seen propagating the benefits of Yoga. He took the age-old practice and placed it at the global pedestal by getting a day dedicated as the Yoga Day.</p>

<p>Every year, starting from the year 2015, Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21. People from across the world enthusiastically observe the day, taking part in mass yoga events.&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of the fifth leg of the Yoga Day celebration this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted out an animated video on Trikonasana. The video, which runs for over 2 minutes, features an animated avatar of the prime minister.

Ahead of the fifth leg of the Yoga Day celebration this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted out an animated video on Trikonasana. The video, which runs for over 2 minutes, features an animated avatar of the prime minister. A step-by-step guide to doing the pose is exhibited in the video which follows the numerous benefits the pose renders. In his tweet, which carries the video, the prime minister urged everyone to make yoga part of their lifestyle. On 21st June, we will mark #YogaDay2019. I urge you all to make Yoga an integral part of your life and also inspire others to do the same. The benefits of Yoga are tremendous. Here is a video on Trikonasana. pic.twitter.com/YDB6T3rw1d — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 5, 2019 × "I urge you all to make Yoga an integral part of your life and also inspire others to do the same. The benefits of Yoga are tremendous," his tweet read. Trikonasana is one of the easiest poses that beginners could start with and incorporate in their daily routine. Apart from calming the body and working on the excess fat around the waistline, regular practice of the posture aids weight loss, enhances flexibility, alleviates lower back pain and strengthens muscles around the back as well as the thighs. During his last term, PM Modi was seen propagating the benefits of Yoga. He took the age-old practice and placed it at the global pedestal by getting a day dedicated as the Yoga Day. Every year, starting from the year 2015, Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21. People from across the world enthusiastically observe the day, taking part in mass yoga events.

Its benefits are temendous! Ahead of Yoga Day, PM Modi tweets out animated video on Trikonasana 

<p>Are you in India today?<br />
&nbsp;<br />
If you happened to be out on the streets in the morning hours, chances were that you would have walked right into a collective gathering of people performing yoga asanas as part of celebrations of the third UN International Yoga Day today.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
While almost all cities had organised yoga sessions in public areas, Lucknow, the capital city of India&rsquo;s largest state Uttar Pradesh witnessed a massive gathering of 51,000 people and more to celebrate the day.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
And this time there weren&rsquo;t just Hindus, but Muslims too.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Apart from individual participants ranging from different professional backgrounds and students from largely Muslim schools and colleges in Uttar Pradesh, Muslim Rashtriya Manch of UP took up an active role at the event.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Speaking on the occasion, Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand said, &ldquo;More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga. In fact, most of them are likely to arrive at the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal).&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

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<h5>More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga.</h5>
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<p>This narrative, however, breaks from the usually accepted discourse of yoga belonging to Hinduism. The ancient Indian tradition known for bringing harmony between man and nature and instilling a great form of restraint and fulfilment is now seeking supporters within religious minority factions too. Shripad Naik, Minister of State, (independent charge) Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) believes that yoga has the ability to change our perspectives of life. He said, &ldquo;It brings through a renewed sense of health&nbsp;and wellbeing among other health benefits.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Syed Yaser Ali Jeelani, national spokesperson, in charge and convener of Muslim Rashtriya Manch Delhi Pradesh also emphasised on how as a Muslim there is nothing wrong with calling yoga our own and that it is for our benefit to claim yoga and grow with it. He said, &ldquo;Only fanatics and religiously intolerant people have a problem with yoga. Yoga is Indian and we as Indians must embrace it. There is no mention of its being wrong for us Muslims to follow it. As a Muslim, yoga is equal to namaz and I would follow yoga with equal fervour as Sanatan Dharam would follow the essence of Hindustani culture.&rdquo;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
It must be brought to context here that it&rsquo;s the holy month of Ramadan and that Muslims are fasting through the day since the hour of dawn till sunset, going without food or water for 30 days straight. Ramadan started on May 28 and it has been 24 days since the Indian Muslims have been observing fast today.&nbsp;</p>

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<h5>Only fanatics and religiously intolerant people have a problem with yoga. Yoga is Indian and we as Indians must embrace it.</h5>
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<p>&nbsp;It&rsquo;s pertinent to mention Ramadan in lieu of Muslims participating at the event, as it throws light on the dedication and eagerness to perform yoga that drove the fasting Muslims to continue practising in the scorching heat.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Kaushal Raj from the organising committee of the International Yoga Day celebrations in Lucknow said, &ldquo;We started training from May 9 as they (participants) &nbsp;had to be trained in different asanas according to the Common Yoga Protocol. It was a prerequisite to being a part of the event. The event was to be performed in the presence of PM Modi, CM Yogi, AYUSH minister, Police, Patanjali, Army and other important people.&rdquo;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Trained according to the Protocol in 25 different asanas for the celebrations, those participating were motivated by a singular sentiment of adopting yoga in their daily lives as an intrinsically Indian cultural symbol, love for which stems from avid nationalism.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
In a build up to the mass congregation today, organisations such as Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, and others who describe themselves as &ldquo;secular Muslim organisations&rdquo; have gone all out in the support of yoga, which has an Indian identity rather than a religious one.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, was fasting while being present for the event. Before it started he said, &ldquo;I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures).&rdquo; He had requested for a separate section for the rozedaars (those fasting) on the venue with provisions of a shade as they would not be able to have water even after physical excursions for the entire day till sunset.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
With more number of Muslims associating themselves with the practice of yoga, it is important to note how the physical art has found its new haven within political circles. Every political party wants to claim yoga and promote it to gain political numbers.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Yoga has become the new &lsquo;magic&rsquo; factor in crunching numbers--in appeasing all factions of the society. Vote bank politics has a new competition in the garb of yoga diplomacy.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
When Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, was contacted, he said, &ldquo;I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one&rsquo;s health.&rdquo;</p>

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<h5>Yoga does not have a religious identity, it is not Hindu or Muslim, it is Indian and we as Indians owe it to the land of Sanatan Dharam to respect the sentiments of the land.</h5>
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<p>Yaser Ali Jeelani adds, &ldquo;Yoga is a part of our Hindustani routine. It is the coming together of kriya, vilom, discipline, love. It does not have a religious identity. It is not Hindu or Muslim, it is Indian and we as Indians owe it to the land of Sanatan Dharam to respect the sentiments of the land.&rdquo;&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
What works in favour of yoga is its universal nature without any religious, identity or ideological barrier, as claimed by all secular organisations who worked to make Yoga Day celebration a success.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Yoga is easy to do, fun to watch, and offers an easily propagated discourse. The fact that roza and yoga are being spoken in the same length and is being accepted by some factions of the minority community, is a battle half won.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The sentiment was first fanned when Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi made comparisons between namaz (Muslim way of prayer) and Surya Namaskar (a prominent asana of yoga). He had said, &ldquo;All asanas (postures) in Surya Namaskar, Pranayama activities are similar to the way namaz is done by our Muslim brothers, but nobody has ever tried to bring them together because few people are interested only in &lsquo;bhoga&rsquo;, not yoga.&rdquo;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
He went on to say that &ldquo;up until 2014, even talking about yoga was considered communal but things changed after PM Modi took steps to make yoga popular across the world&rdquo;.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Government ministries are now working overtime to market yoga as a religion-neutral exercise and ensure maximum participation nationwide. To put things in perspective, the Union AYUSH Ministry released a book called &quot;Yoga and Islam&quot;, on its universal appeal and acceptance. To appease the Muslims, the Ministry also decided to drop the words Om and Surya Namaskar.</p>

<p>He said, &ldquo;Denouncing the celebration on the ground of opposing certain hymns or celebrating it on Sunday only echo our fractured mindset and all the more highlight the need for a yogic life. Even Surya Namaskar is not a form of worship but well known as a capsule form of yoga which anyone can practise in a short span of time. If leading a healthy life is a human right, then it should be available to all human beings, irrespective of religion.&rdquo;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
But this does not go down well with everyone. Some elements in RSS feel that these compromises make yoga lose its essence and that Muslims cannot have a way out of it if they claim to be Indian, in every sense of the word.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
(WION)&nbsp;</p>


"Yoga is Indian and we as Indians must embrace it. There is no mention of its being wrong for us Muslims to follow it", says national spokesperson of Muslim Rashtriya Manch

Are you in India today? If you happened to be out on the streets in the morning hours, chances were that you would have walked right into a collective gathering of people performing yoga asanas as part of celebrations of the third UN International Yoga Day today. While almost all cities had organised yoga sessions in public areas, Lucknow, the capital city of India’s largest state Uttar Pradesh witnessed a massive gathering of 51,000 people and more to celebrate the day. And this time there weren’t just Hindus, but Muslims too. Apart from individual participants ranging from different professional backgrounds and students from largely Muslim schools and colleges in Uttar Pradesh, Muslim Rashtriya Manch of UP took up an active role at the event. Speaking on the occasion, Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand said, “More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga. In fact, most of them are likely to arrive at the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal).” More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga. × This narrative, however, breaks from the usually accepted discourse of yoga belonging to Hinduism. The ancient Indian tradition known for bringing harmony between man and nature and instilling a great form of restraint and fulfilment is now seeking supporters within religious minority factions too. Shripad Naik, Minister of State, (independent charge) Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) believes that yoga has the ability to change our perspectives of life. He said, “It brings through a renewed sense of health and wellbeing among other health benefits.” Syed Yaser Ali Jeelani, national spokesperson, in charge and convener of Muslim Rashtriya Manch Delhi Pradesh also emphasised on how as a Muslim there is nothing wrong with calling yoga our own and that it is for our benefit to claim yoga and grow with it. He said, “Only fanatics and religiously intolerant people have a problem with yoga. Yoga is Indian and we as Indians must embrace it. There is no mention of its being wrong for us Muslims to follow it. As a Muslim, yoga is equal to namaz and I would follow yoga with equal fervour as Sanatan Dharam would follow the essence of Hindustani culture.” It must be brought to context here that it’s the holy month of Ramadan and that Muslims are fasting through the day since the hour of dawn till sunset, going without food or water for 30 days straight. Ramadan started on May 28 and it has been 24 days since the Indian Muslims have been observing fast today. Only fanatics and religiously intolerant people have a problem with yoga. Yoga is Indian and we as Indians must embrace it. × It’s pertinent to mention Ramadan in lieu of Muslims participating at the event, as it throws light on the dedication and eagerness to perform yoga that drove the fasting Muslims to continue practising in the scorching heat. Kaushal Raj from the organising committee of the International Yoga Day celebrations in Lucknow said, “We started training from May 9 as they (participants) had to be trained in different asanas according to the Common Yoga Protocol. It was a prerequisite to being a part of the event. The event was to be performed in the presence of PM Modi, CM Yogi, AYUSH minister, Police, Patanjali, Army and other important people.” Trained according to the Protocol in 25 different asanas for the celebrations, those participating were motivated by a singular sentiment of adopting yoga in their daily lives as an intrinsically Indian cultural symbol, love for which stems from avid nationalism. In a build up to the mass congregation today, organisations such as Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, and others who describe themselves as “secular Muslim organisations” have gone all out in the support of yoga, which has an Indian identity rather than a religious one. Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, was fasting while being present for the event. Before it started he said, “I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures).” He had requested for a separate section for the rozedaars (those fasting) on the venue with provisions of a shade as they would not be able to have water even after physical excursions for the entire day till sunset. With more number of Muslims associating themselves with the practice of yoga, it is important to note how the physical art has found its new haven within political circles. Every political party wants to claim yoga and promote it to gain political numbers. Yoga has become the new ‘magic’ factor in crunching numbers--in appeasing all factions of the society. Vote bank politics has a new competition in the garb of yoga diplomacy. When Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, was contacted, he said, “I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one’s health.” Yoga does not have a religious identity, it is not Hindu or Muslim, it is Indian and we as Indians owe it to the land of Sanatan Dharam to respect the sentiments of the land. × Yaser Ali Jeelani adds, “Yoga is a part of our Hindustani routine. It is the coming together of kriya, vilom, discipline, love. It does not have a religious identity. It is not Hindu or Muslim, it is Indian and we as Indians owe it to the land of Sanatan Dharam to respect the sentiments of the land.” What works in favour of yoga is its universal nature without any religious, identity or ideological barrier, as claimed by all secular organisations who worked to make Yoga Day celebration a success. Yoga is easy to do, fun to watch, and offers an easily propagated discourse. The fact that roza and yoga are being spoken in the same length and is being accepted by some factions of the minority community, is a battle half won. The sentiment was first fanned when Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi made comparisons between namaz (Muslim way of prayer) and Surya Namaskar (a prominent asana of yoga). He had said, “All asanas (postures) in Surya Namaskar, Pranayama activities are similar to the way namaz is done by our Muslim brothers, but nobody has ever tried to bring them together because few people are interested only in ‘bhoga’, not yoga.” He went on to say that “up until 2014, even talking about yoga was considered communal but things changed after PM Modi took steps to make yoga popular across the world”. Government ministries are now working overtime to market yoga as a religion-neutral exercise and ensure maximum participation nationwide. To put things in perspective, the Union AYUSH Ministry released a book called "Yoga and Islam", on its universal appeal and acceptance. To appease the Muslims, the Ministry also decided to drop the words Om and Surya Namaskar. He said, “Denouncing the celebration on the ground of opposing certain hymns or celebrating it on Sunday only echo our fractured mindset and all the more highlight the need for a yogic life. Even Surya Namaskar is not a form of worship but well known as a capsule form of yoga which anyone can practise in a short span of time. If leading a healthy life is a human right, then it should be available to all human beings, irrespective of religion.” But this does not go down well with everyone. Some elements in RSS feel that these compromises make yoga lose its essence and that Muslims cannot have a way out of it if they claim to be Indian, in every sense of the word. (WION)

Secular Muslims celebrate International Yoga Day

<p>At this year&#39;s International Yoga Day celebrations here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas.</p>

<p>At least 300 Muslim men and women under the banner of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch will be among the 55,000-strong participants at the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan.</p>

<p>&quot;More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga.</p>

<p>&quot;In fact most of them are likely to arrive to the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal),&quot; Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand, told PTI.</p>

<p>Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, will also be performing yoga while fasting.<br />
&quot;I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures),&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Singh said a request seeking a separate area for the Muslims participants will be made to the organisers.</p>

<p>Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, when contacted, said, &quot;I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one&#39;s health.&quot;</p>

<p>Raees Khan, the UP and Uttarakhand in-charge of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, informed that the manch is trying to ensure attendance of at least 1,000 Muslim yoga enthusiasts at Modi&#39;s programme.</p>

<p>&quot;So far 300 have already confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be rozadars. Since 15 days, the participants have been practicing different aasans and postures,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Member of UP unit of BJP Iqbal Haidar, who also heads a brotherhood committee of Muslims and had pledged to build Ram temple in Ayodhya, said, &quot;I will be fasting, but at the same time participate in the Yoga Day celebrations. Yoga and roza are two different entities, and there should be no confusion in this regard. There should also be no difficulty or restriction on the participation of a rozedar in yoga programmes.&quot;</p>

<p>For convenience of ordinary citizens, LED screens will be installed at different parks in Lucknow, so that visitors could also participate simultaneously. Directions have already been issued to hold a 28-day workshop for the participants prior to the International Yoga Day.</p>

<p>The main programme would be the mass yoga demonstration from 7.00 am to 8.00 am, which will adhere to Common Yoga Protocol. Other events would include yoga fests, seminars, workshops, musical and cultural programmes.</p>

<p>(PTI)&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas

At this year's International Yoga Day celebrations here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas. At least 300 Muslim men and women under the banner of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch will be among the 55,000-strong participants at the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan. "More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga. "In fact most of them are likely to arrive to the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal)," Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand, told PTI. Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, will also be performing yoga while fasting. "I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures)," he said. Singh said a request seeking a separate area for the Muslims participants will be made to the organisers. Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, when contacted, said, "I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one's health." Raees Khan, the UP and Uttarakhand in-charge of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, informed that the manch is trying to ensure attendance of at least 1,000 Muslim yoga enthusiasts at Modi's programme. "So far 300 have already confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be rozadars. Since 15 days, the participants have been practicing different aasans and postures," he said. Member of UP unit of BJP Iqbal Haidar, who also heads a brotherhood committee of Muslims and had pledged to build Ram temple in Ayodhya, said, "I will be fasting, but at the same time participate in the Yoga Day celebrations. Yoga and roza are two different entities, and there should be no confusion in this regard. There should also be no difficulty or restriction on the participation of a rozedar in yoga programmes." For convenience of ordinary citizens, LED screens will be installed at different parks in Lucknow, so that visitors could also participate simultaneously. Directions have already been issued to hold a 28-day workshop for the participants prior to the International Yoga Day. The main programme would be the mass yoga demonstration from 7.00 am to 8.00 am, which will adhere to Common Yoga Protocol. Other events would include yoga fests, seminars, workshops, musical and cultural programmes. (PTI)

Yoga Day: Fasting Muslims to take part in PM Modi's UP event

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