In a vibrant display of unity and wellness, thousands gathered at New York City’s iconic Times Square for a day-long celebration of International Day of Yoga.
· Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, expressed his delight at the turnout, emphasizing the theme of ‘Yoga for Self and Society’ for the 2024 Yoga Day.
· Meanwhile, halfway across the globe in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 10th International Day of Yoga with his customary leadership.
· PM Modi’s address from Srinagar resonated with the essence of yoga as a unifying force, emphasizing its manifold benefits for individuals and societies alike.
In a vibrant display of unity and wellness, thousands gathered at New York City’s iconic Times Square for a day-long celebration of International Day of Yoga, organized by the Consulate General of India in New York and the Times Square Alliance. Against the backdrop of the summer solstice, enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds and nationalities embraced the ancient Indian practice amidst soaring temperatures reaching up to 93°F (33.8°C).
Led by yoga instructor and Breath Meditation teacher Richa Dhekne, renowned for her extensive work with the Art of Living Foundation, the event kicked off with fervor as participants rolled out their mats in the heart of Manhattan. Throughout the day, various experts guided sessions in meditation, exercises, and breathing techniques, fostering a spirit of communal participation and holistic well-being.
Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, expressed his delight at the turnout, emphasizing the theme of ‘Yoga for Self and Society’ for the 2024 Yoga Day. He noted the diverse representation among the 8,000-10,000 participants, underscoring yoga’s universal appeal and its ability to inspire individuals across different communities.
Highlighting the event’s significance, the Consulate underscored the role of yoga in promoting physical health, spiritual enrichment, and harmony with nature. This sentiment resonated deeply as officials from the Indian Consulate and members of the diaspora joined in, further enriching the collective experience of yoga’s transformative power.
Preceding the celebrations in Times Square, similar events were held at Bryant Park and Central Park, underscoring New York City’s enthusiastic embrace of yoga as a cultural and wellness practice. Special sessions, including one dedicated to women led by Swami Brahmanishthananda, further underscored yoga’s inclusivity and its ability to empower diverse communities.
Meanwhile, halfway across the globe in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 10th International Day of Yoga with his customary leadership. Reflecting on the global journey of Yoga Day since its inception in 2014, PM Modi highlighted its widespread acceptance and recognition, evidenced by its endorsement by 177 nations at the United Nations.
PM Modi’s address from Srinagar resonated with the essence of yoga as a unifying force, emphasizing its manifold benefits for individuals and societies alike. He commemorated a 101-year-old yoga teacher who was honored with the Padma Shri, despite never setting foot in India, affirming her pivotal role in raising global awareness about yoga’s profound impact.
Moreover, PM Modi noted the burgeoning research efforts worldwide dedicated to studying yoga’s effects across prestigious universities and institutions. This scholarly pursuit underscores yoga’s evolution from ancient tradition to modern-day scientific validation, further cementing its status as a global cultural heritage.
As the day drew to a close in Times Square, the collective resonance of yoga reverberated across continents, symbolizing unity in diversity and a shared commitment to holistic well-being. Participants departed with renewed vigor and a deeper appreciation for yoga’s timeless teachings, poised to integrate its principles into their daily lives.
In essence, the International Day of Yoga celebrations in Times Square encapsulated the spirit of global harmony and wellness, uniting individuals across boundaries in a shared journey towards physical vitality, mental serenity, and spiritual fulfilment. The event’s success reaffirmed yoga’s universal relevance and its power to foster a healthier, more connected world.
As the sun set over Manhattan, the echoes of mantras and the tranquil hum of deep breathing lingered in the air, a testament to the enduring legacy of yoga as a bridge between cultures and a beacon of inner peace. In the bustling heart of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling crowds, yoga once again demonstrated its ability to transcend geographical distances and bring people together in a harmonious celebration of health and unity.
(With inputs from agencies)
