International Yoga Day 2025: Millions Unite Worldwide to Celebrate Health, Harmony, and Heritage

PM Modi Leads Celebrations in Visakhapatnam, Calls Yoga “A Way of Life”

New Delhi: June 21, 2025

People across the globe came together today to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga, embracing the ancient Indian discipline as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The day witnessed vibrant celebrations across continents from iconic global landmarks to local parks but all eyes were on Visakhapatnam, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebration.

Prime Minister Modi, who took part in the main Yoga Day event in Visakhapatnam, shared his reflections in a post on social media, stating:

“Yoga isn’t just an exercise. It is a way of life. Wonderful to join this year’s Yoga Day celebrations in Visakhapatnam.”

A large crowd of citizens, students, yoga teachers, and practitioners participated in the early morning session. The event venue was adorned with vibrant floral arrangements, and the atmosphere echoed traditional Indian aesthetics, reflecting yoga’s deep cultural roots.

The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” and emphasizes the interconnectivity of personal well-being and the well-being of our planet. It draws from the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — meaning “the world is one family.” The theme underscores how sustainable living, self-awareness, and mindful practices like yoga can promote both individual health and the well-being of the planet.

How Yoga Day Began

The first International Yoga Day was observed in 2015, after PM Modi put the idea necessary for proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014.
He described yoga as “an invaluable gift” from India that promotes unity between the mind and body. The resolution, which was co-sponsored by a record number of 177 nations, resulted in the UN officially declaring June 21 the day of the summer solstice to be the International Day of Yoga.

A Global Celebration of Wellness

From New York to Nairobi, and Tokyo to São Paulo, millions participated in coordinated yoga sessions and wellness events. In New York, the United Nations held a sunrise yoga event attended by diplomats and yoga ambassadors. Across India, thousands joined programs in schools, universities, defence establishments, and public parks, showcasing the widespread reach and relevance of yoga.

Yoga’s Growing Global Role

Yoga has transformed from a traditional spiritual discipline into a modern global wellness movement. Healthcare professionals endorse it for stress management and chronic pain, while athletes and fitness experts embrace it for strength and flexibility. Corporations are also integrating yoga into workplace wellness programs to improve employee focus and mental health.

On social media, hashtags like #InternationalYogaDay and #YogaForOneEarthOneHealth trended globally as users posted photos, videos, and reflections on the role yoga plays in their lives.

A Message of Unity Through Breath and Balance

As the sun set on International Yoga Day 2025, the celebrations sent a powerful message: that ancient practices like yoga offer timeless solutions to modern challenges. From Visakhapatnam’s grand event led by the Prime Minister to global gatherings promoting peace and well-being, the day reaffirmed yoga’s unique power to connect humanity in breath, in balance, and in shared responsibility for our collective future.