Countries across the Pacific, including New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga, on Saturday celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), with large numbers of yoga enthusiasts joining the global occasion.
In New Zealand, over 150 yoga practitioners from Kiwi, Indian, and international communities gathered to mark IDY. The event, held with a vibrant spirit, was organized at the High Commission of India in collaboration with Heartfulness, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and the Art of Living Foundation.
Former New Zealand Governor Anand Satyanand attended as the Chief Guest.
The Indian High Commission in New Zealand also shared glimpses of the Yoga Day celebrations at the iconic Beehive (New Zealand Parliament) on its social media platforms, highlighting the enthusiastic participation.
In Papua New Guinea, the Indian High Commission partnered with the Active City Development Programme (ACDP) to host celebrations at Ela Beach in the capital city, Port Moresby. Over 250 participants from various communities took part in the event.
Papua New Guinea Governor Powes Parkop, who attended as Chief Guest, spoke about how yoga has positively transformed his life.
Addressing the gathering, Mukesh Kumar Ambasta, Charge d’Affaires (Cd’A) of the Indian High Commission in Papua New Guinea, emphasized the significance of this year’s IDY theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, highlighting the deep connection between personal well-being and planetary health.
In Tonga, around 60 yoga enthusiasts participated in the Yoga Day event held at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nukuʻalofa. The event was jointly organized by the Indian High Commission and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of Fiji, in collaboration with the Tongan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tonga’s Health Minister, Ana Akaola, was also present at the event.
Meanwhile, in Fiji, the Indian High Commission and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre hosted the Yoga Day celebration at the iconic Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, the capital.
“Grateful to Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Fiji, for joining as the Chief Guest. Heartfelt thanks to all yoga enthusiasts — including diplomats, the diaspora, and media members — who made today’s event truly special,” the Indian High Commission in Suva posted on X.
Deputy Prime Minister Prasad also shared a message on social media: “As we mark International Day of Yoga, let us reflect on yoga’s power to heal, unite, and inspire. Yoga for ‘One Earth, One Health’ reminds us to care for ourselves and our planet. A few minutes a day can transform lives.”
— IANS