International Yoga Day 2024: Date, Theme, History And Significance

International Day of Yoga 2024 marks a special occasion as the world celebrates the 10th anniversary of this global event. The aim is to promote yoga as a movement that enhances one's well-being and fosters health for each and every person in society.

In 2024, the International Day of Yoga falls on Friday, June 21. The day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the ancient practice of yoga, which originated in India.

The theme for 2024 is 'Yoga for Self and Society'. Yoga offers a holistic approach to health and well-being that helps restore balance in our hectic lives. Its power to transform is what we celebrate on this special day.

International Day of Yoga was established by the United Nations on December 11, 2014, following a proposal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 69th session of the UN General Assembly. The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated on June 21, 2015. The date was chosen to coincide with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising light and well-being.

The significance of International Day of Yoga lies in its aim to raise global awareness about the benefits of yoga. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that promotes a holistic approach to health and well-being. It helps reduce stress, enhance physical fitness, and improve mental clarity. The day emphasises the importance of making healthier lifestyle choices and incorporating regular yoga practice into daily routines.

Ahead of the International Day of Yoga on June 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon people to reiterate their commitment to making yoga an integral part of their lives and also encourage others to do the same. Yoga has transcended cultural and geographical boundaries, uniting millions around the globe in the pursuit of holistic well-being, the prime minister said.

Modi said, "As we approach this year's Yoga Day, it is essential to reiterate our commitment to making Yoga an integral part of our lives and also encouraging others to make it a part of theirs."

"Yoga offers a sanctuary of calm, enabling us to navigate life's challenges with calm and fortitude," the prime minister said and also shared a set of videos showing various forms of yoga and their benefits.