President Droupadi Murmu, speaking on the occasion of International Yoga Day on Sunday, said that through its yoga tradition, India has shown humanity the path to a healthy, balanced, and meaningful life. She called yoga a priceless gift of India’s cultural heritage to the global community, the result of thousands of years of spiritual practice by sages and seers.
The President was addressing a state-level yoga event at the Garrison Ground at Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of International Yoga Day.
Advertisement
From the sacred land that gifted the world the invaluable knowledge of yoga, the message of health, balance, peace, and self-realization is once again being spread across the globe.
She noted that Indian scriptures regard harmony among the body, mind, and soul as the basis of a successful life, and yoga is the path to achieving that balance.
She pointed out that the word Yoga means “to unite” — connecting an individual with oneself, society with nature, and humanity with universal consciousness. Yoga serves as a powerful medium for attaining inner peace, balance, and collective well-being. At a time when the world faces numerous challenges, yoga is helping humanity find a path toward peace, harmony, and welfare.
She recalled that in 2014, following India’s initiative, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as International Yoga Day. This initiative gave yoga a new identity and wider acceptance as a powerful tool for global well-being. Today, millions across the world have incorporated yoga into their daily lives, and interest in yoga continues to grow internationally, showcasing India’s cultural strength.
The President highlighted that the theme of International Yoga Day 2026, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” emphasizes yoga’s role in promoting health, activity, self-reliance, and dignity among senior citizens. Yoga helps individuals remain healthy, active, and independent even as they age.
She stressed that yoga is not merely a means to maintain physical health but also promotes mental peace and emotional balance. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, yoga offers a simple, effective, and accessible solution to prevent lifestyle-related diseases and ensure holistic health.
President Murmu appreciated the Government of India’s continuous efforts to expand yoga education, research, training, and public awareness. She urged all citizens to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives.
President Murmu is currently on a five-day visit to Madhya Pradesh from June 18 to 22.