KATHMANDU: International Yoga Day is being celebrated across Nepal and around the world today under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
Observed annually on June 21, International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness about the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga through various public programs and activities.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 69th session of the General Assembly. The first International Yoga Day was observed on June 21, 2015.
Nepal was among the countries that supported the proposal from the outset. Then Prime Minister Sushil Koirala endorsed the initiative, which later received backing from the European Union and other United Nations member states. The resolution set a UN record by garnering support from 177 countries within 90 days.
Yoga has a long history in Nepal. Since 2036 BS, World Yoga Day had been observed in Nepal on Magh 1, marking the beginning of Uttarayan, under the initiative of yoga campaigner Dr. Hari Prasad Pokharel and various organizations working in the field of yoga.
The observance was launched with the objective of reviving and promoting yoga, which has deep roots in the Himalayan region and Vedic traditions.
Yoga and naturopathy are currently taught at Nepal Sanskrit University, while Tribhuvan University has also introduced yoga studies under its Central Department of Sanskrit.
Traditionally, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda were regarded as important means of maintaining physical health, mental peace, and emotional well-being. In recent decades, growing global recognition of yoga as a tool for wellness and disease prevention has renewed public interest in the practice, including in Nepal.
Following the international recognition of Yoga Day, campaigners in Nepal proposed that Magh 1 be formally designated as National Yoga Day. Acting on a proposal by then Minister for Peace and Reconstruction Narahari Acharya, the Government of Nepal officially declared Magh 1 as National Yoga Day on July 28, 2015.
As Uttarayan is considered especially significant for yoga and meditation practices, Nepal continues to observe National Yoga Day on Magh 1 while also celebrating International Yoga Day on June 21 each year.
Dr. Hari Prasad Pokharel, a long-time advocate of yoga, says that yoga plays a crucial role in preventing diseases and promoting overall well-being, often proving more effective as a preventive measure than as a treatment after illness occurs.
To mark this year’s International Yoga Day, a special program has been organized at the premises of the National Sports Council in Kathmandu at 7:00 am. The event, coordinated by the International Yoga Day Main Celebration Committee, is expected to draw a large number of yoga practitioners, health experts, and enthusiasts.
The program will feature demonstrations of yoga postures, discussions on their benefits, and awareness activities highlighting the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life. The event is also expected to be attended by the Chief Secretary and other senior officials.
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