International Yoga Day

The International Day of Yoga (IDY) is observed globally on June 21 every year to highlight the ancient Indian practice of Yoga and its universal benefits. The United Nations General Assembly adopted this day in 2014 following a historic proposal by India, endorsed by a record 177 member states. June 21, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolizes light, vitality, and balance—core tenets of Yoga itself.

The 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2025, embraces the official theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising yoga’s vital role in fostering both personal and planetary wellness.

The International Day of Yoga is not just an annual observance, but a global acknowledgment of India’s timeless contribution to humanity’s well-being. In a world grappling with rising stress, chronic illnesses, and mental health challenges, Yoga serves as a universal remedy rooted in self-awareness, balance, and sustainability. IDY underscores the idea that health is not merely the absence of disease, but a dynamic state of physical vitality, emotional stability, and spiritual clarity. It brings people together in collective practice, transcending language, nationality, and ideology, to promote peace within and around us. Celebrating this day is a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to nurture holistic health for individuals, communities, and the planet.

Yoga is more than just a form of exercise, it is a philosophy and a way of life that originated over 5,000 years ago in India. Derived from the Sanskrit root “Yuj”, which means to unite.

The practice of Yoga has gained immense global recognition for its power to promote inner peace, physical well-being, and mental clarity. It integrates Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Dhyana (meditation), and ethical principles that collectively nurture a balanced life. With increasing stress and lifestyle-related diseases worldwide, Yoga offers a preventive, accessible, and holistic health solution.

Every year, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated with mass demonstrations, workshops, lectures, and community programs. The Ministry of AYUSH, along with Indian missions abroad, state governments, educational institutions, and citizens, comes together to spread the message of wellness and harmony.

From the Arctic Circle to the Southern tip of Africa, Yoga enthusiasts gather at iconic locations such as the Eiffel Tower, Times Square, Sydney Opera House, and even Mount Everest Base Camp to participate in the Common Yoga Protocol.

India’s celebrations are marked by national-level events led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, with lakhs of people performing Yoga in unison, showcasing India’s cultural heritage and leadership in wellness diplomacy.

Over the past ten years, the International Day of Yoga has evolved into a truly global celebration of health and harmony. Each year has witnessed enthusiastic participation across continents, with events held at iconic landmarks and unique locations. The inaugural celebration in 2015 saw a historic gathering at Rajpath, New Delhi, where thousands performed Yoga together, setting world records. In subsequent years, the scale and creativity of celebrations expanded, taking place at iconic landmarks, remote natural settings, educational institutions, community spaces, and even aboard ships and research stations. These diverse venues reflected the universal appeal of Yoga and its ability to connect people across cultures, geographies, and walks of life. The 2022 edition introduced the innovative “Guardian Ring” a global Yoga relay that moved across time zones, showcasing the sunrise-to-sunset celebration of Yoga around the world. India’s leadership during its G20 presidency in 2023-24 also saw Yoga sessions organized in all G20 nations, reinforcing Yoga’s role in international cooperation and public health. These milestones reflect how Yoga has moved from a traditional Indian practice to a global wellness movement, uniting people through breath, balance, and mindfulness.

 As we have completed 10 years and looking forward to commemorate the 11th International Day of Yoga, the Department of Posts proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp, First Day Cover (FDC), and a Special Cancellation that capture the essence of Yoga as a symbol of harmony and health.

As Yoga continues to inspire millions across borders, the 11th International Day of Yoga reaffirms India’s cultural leadership and commitment to global health. With this commemorative stamp, India Post celebrates not just a practice but a legacy of unity, resilience, and inner transformation.