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How PM Modi combined varjish and virasat, legacy and lifestyle through Yoga Day
As we mark the 11th International Day of Yoga today – millions will unite from Puri to Paris, from Varanasi to Washington to celebrate India's ancient gift of Yoga to humanity that has transcended borders to become a global symbol of wellness, peace, fitness and unity.
Since 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has elevated Yoga into a global phenomenon, merging legacy with contemporary lifestyle. By promoting Yoga as a holistic practice that blends physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama) and meditation, he has made it relevant to today's fast-paced world.
Events at iconic Indian sites like Rani Ki Vav and Konark's Sun Temple during connect Yoga to our civilizational heritage and its adoption in gyms, corporate offices and colleges, reflect its seamless integration into modern lifestyles. PM Modi's vision has ensured Yoga remains a living tradition and not a relic.
A decade ago PM Modi proposed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga during his inaugural UN General Assembly speech. Within an unprecedented 90 days the resolution garnered support from 177 countries, setting a record for the fastest UN consensus. This diplomatic triumph was not just a win for India but a recognition of Yoga as a secular, inclusive practice. PM Modi's persistent advocacy through international forums and bilateral engagements ensured Yoga's official recognition and millions now participate in Yoga Day celebrations, from New York's Times Square to Tokyo's public squares.
Since then, Yoga has evolved into a bigger worldwide phenomenon. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and adaptability, requiring only a mat and of course mindfulness. Indian embassies and cultural missions have fueled this global enthusiasm through 'Yoga diplomacy' organising events, workshops and festivals. Social media has amplified its reach with influencers, celebrities and everyday practitioners sharing Yoga's benefits. Yoga's universal language of wellness has made it a truly global movement.
On one hand, Yoga embodies India's virasat (heritage) while redefining varzish (fitness). By hosting Yoga sessions at 100 iconic tourist spots and 50 cultural heritage sites, India is underscoring Yoga's deep roots in our civilizational ethos. These sites are not mere backdrops but symbols of continuity, linking ancient wisdom to modern practice. Unlike Western fitness regimes focused on competition, Yoga offers an inclusive, collaborative approach to fitness, aiming for harmony between body, mind and environment.
In a sense, it is also our message to the world – we need less of divided camps and fighting and more of uniting – from Ukraine to Russia, from Israel to Iran. We need a situation of collaboration with environment not one of conflict.
Yoga's greatest strength is its inclusivity, transcending barriers of religion, culture, and ideology. Rooted in Indian philosophy, it requires no faith or ritual- only awareness and discipline. Christians in California to Muslims in Abu Dhabi to Buddhists in Tokyo
and atheists in Beijing – all practice Yoga and are united by its universal appeal. In a polarised world, Yoga serves as an apolitical oasis fostering unity through shared breath.
This message of Yog or union is what makes it India's most potent expression of soft power, quietly shaping global perceptions and narratives without force. Unlike traditional diplomacy, Yoga builds bridges through serenity not cynical strategy. Indian missions worldwide host Yoga programs, while Indian Yoga teachers are celebrated globally.
This subtle cultural influence strengthens India's global presence fostering goodwill and mutual respect by offering a philosophy of peace and wellness. Yoga truly positions India as a beacon of harmony in a world grappling with division and conflict. It strengthens our advocacy of Buddh over Yuddh!
Yoga has also revolutionised fitness by offering a low-cost, low-injury and high-impact alternative to conventional workouts. Its emphasis on mindfulness and flexibility suits all ages and all body types, challenging the aggressive, vanity-driven pumping iron culture. Integrated into corporate wellness programs, schools (via NEP 2020) and public health initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Yoga promotes preventive healthcare and reduces non-communicable diseases too.
Yoga industry has also sparked huge economic growth. Globally, it's a US 130 billion dollar market with India's wellness economy projected to hit US 70 billion dollars by 2026. The Ministry of AYUSH's Yoga Certification Board has professionalised training, creating jobs for thousands, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities as certified trainers, retreat facilitators and wellness consultants. Digital Startups are merging technology with tradition, offering AI-driven posture correction and virtual classes, further boosting the Yoga economy.
Under PM Modi's leadership, Yoga has now transcended its ancient origins to become a global lifestyle, uniting heritage and fitness, tradition and innovation, Vyayaam and Virasat. Its official recognition by the UN, its widespread global adoption and its economic impact highlight India's cultural influence.
As a soft power, Yoga builds bridges where muscular politics falter and its inclusive nature unites diverse communities. Yoga is not just India's past—it's shaping a healthier, harmonious future for the world, with Bharat truly in the leading pose.
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Views expressed above are the author's own.
