KATHMANDU: International Yoga Day is being observed across Nepal today through various programs and public awareness activities.
Celebrated globally on June 21 each year, the day aims to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga.
The United Nations General Assembly officially declared June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014, following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 69th UN General Assembly.
He emphasized that yoga is a timeless practice essential for all. The proposal received immediate and widespread support, with Nepal—under the leadership of then Prime Minister Sushil Koirala—being the first country to endorse it.
It was later supported by the European Union and other permanent members of the United Nations. The resolution set a global record, gaining the support of 177 countries within just 90 days.
Since June 21, 2015, International Yoga Day has been celebrated worldwide. However, in Nepal, Yoga Day was first observed on Magh 1, 2036 BS, coinciding with the occasion of Uttarayan, the period when the sun begins its northward journey—considered auspicious for yoga and meditation.
Nepal Sanskrit University has also been contributing to this field by offering six-month courses in yoga and naturopathy. Historically, yoga—studied and practiced by sages in the Himalayan region during the Vedic period—had nearly disappeared from Nepal.
The initiative to revive it by designating a special day has helped increase public interest and awareness.
After International Yoga Day was officially adopted globally on June 21, yoga campaigners in Nepal submitted a proposal to the Council of Ministers through the Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction to designate Magh 1 as National Yoga Day.
Acting on this proposal, the Government of Nepal officially declared Magh 1 as National Yoga Day in 2072 BS, during the tenure of then Peace Minister Narahari Acharya.
Since Uttarayan, which begins around Magh 1, is considered a spiritually significant time for yoga and meditation, the day holds special importance in Nepal’s cultural and spiritual calendar.
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