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Wednesday, June 21, 2023

UN rebuffs critics of yoga, backs Modi's outreach

Come Wednesday, thousands of Americans, many of them Indian-Americans will be out on their mats in New York and other cities as Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads a yoga session at the United Nations Secretariat to mark International Yoga Day (June 21), a formal designation sought and obtained in 2014 by New Delhi in an effort to propagate its ancient heritage for its health benefits.


In a resounding show of support, the United Nations (UN) has strongly refuted the critics of yoga and endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to promote this ancient practice on the global stage. The UN's backing serves as a testament to the widespread recognition and acceptance of yoga as a holistic and beneficial activity for individuals across the world.

Yoga, an age-old discipline originating from India, has gained immense popularity globally due to its numerous physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Practiced by millions, yoga has proven to be an effective tool for promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, stress reduction, and overall holistic health.

Prime Minister Modi has played a pivotal role in elevating yoga's stature on the international platform. His tireless efforts to raise awareness about the practice culminated in the UN's declaration of June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. This annual observance has garnered substantial participation worldwide, fostering unity and encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to embrace yoga as part of their daily lives.


Despite its overwhelming popularity and positive impact, yoga has faced some unfounded criticism from a few quarters. Detractors have questioned its cultural appropriation, religious connotations, or commercialization, attempting to undermine its significance. However, the UN's unequivocal support for yoga serves as a powerful response to these critics, highlighting the universal appeal and transformative potential of this ancient practice.

The UN recognizes that yoga transcends boundaries of religion, culture, and nationality, making it accessible to people of all backgrounds. The organization acknowledges that yoga's underlying principles, such as mindfulness, physical well-being, and inner harmony, can contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The holistic nature of yoga aligns with the pursuit of a healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable world.

By embracing yoga, nations around the globe are acknowledging the potential for individual and collective transformation. The UN's endorsement not only endorses Prime Minister Modi's efforts but also underscores the significance of yoga as a tool for personal empowerment and global harmony.


As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the UN's support for yoga sends a strong message of unity and solidarity. It encourages individuals, communities, and nations to come together, transcending boundaries, and embracing the shared goal of well-being for all.

In conclusion, the United Nations' rejection of the critics of yoga and its endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global outreach on this ancient practice reflects the universal appeal and transformative power of yoga. This support reinforces the importance of promoting yoga as a means to foster physical, mental, and spiritual well-being on an individual and global level. As the world unites to celebrate the International Day of Yoga, it symbolizes a collective effort to build a healthier and harmonious future for all.