Crowds of yoga practitioners in various cities across China took part in the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations, highlighting the worldwide appeal of India’s message of well-being.
In Beijing, hundreds unrolled their mats to practice yoga, celebrating IDY with a beautiful kirtan and the energizing Common Yoga Protocol at the Old Chancery complex.
“A guided meditation helped participants center themselves and experience a sense of calm. The experience was elevated by a graceful performance blending yoga with the elegance of Odissi dance. The crowd was also captivated by advanced yoga demonstrations,” the Embassy of India in Beijing posted on X.
The Consulate General of India in Shanghai hosted its flagship IDY celebration, featuring yoga demonstrations, interactive sessions, and cultural activities. The event witnessed participation from a diverse audience of diplomats, yoga enthusiasts, and community members.
In his remarks, Pratik Mathur, India’s Consul General in Shanghai, highlighted the event’s significance as a testament to the widespread appeal of Indian civilization and culture.
“This flagship celebration is the culmination of a long series of events across Eastern China, including Hangzhou, Wuxi, and Suzhou, organized in collaboration with Indian diaspora communities, global MNCs, and Buddhist monasteries — a testament to yoga’s broad appeal,” Mathur said.
He also emphasized yoga’s universal relevance, especially as this year marks the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, fostering harmony and health across communities.
“Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies the unity of mind and body, thought and action, restraint and fulfillment, and harmony between man and nature,” he added, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who advocated for the establishment of IDY at the United Nations.
Mathur also paid tribute to the victims of the recent Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad. “Our hearts are heavy with this tragedy. In such moments, yoga’s teachings of resilience, mindfulness, and inner peace offer a profound source of comfort and strength,” he said.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in China, Siddharth Chatterjee, attended the event as chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Chatterjee praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in globalizing yoga and his role in creating a more connected world.
Praising yoga’s alignment with global well-being and unity, he remarked, “As a yoga practitioner, I deeply appreciate its transformative power to foster resilience and peace. This event reflects the shared commitment of India and the United Nations to promote health and harmony, strengthening bonds between nations.”
The event capped a series of IDY celebrations across Eastern China, showcasing yoga’s broad appeal through partnerships with diverse stakeholders. The Indian Consulate General extended its heartfelt gratitude to Chatterjee and all participants for making the event a resounding success.
Additionally, an event was held on the banks of the majestic Pearl River in Guangzhou, where more than 300 yoga enthusiasts took part. Shambhu Hakki, the Indian Consul General in Guangzhou, also attended and highlighted yoga’s growing popularity in South China and its role in strengthening cultural ties between India and China.
IANS