How are Chinese Cities Celebrating International Day of Yoga?

Beijing, June 21 (NationPress) Large crowds of yoga practitioners in multiple cities across China took part in the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations, showcasing the global resonance of India's message of wellness.

In Beijing, numerous participants spread their mats to engage in yoga, marking IDY with a captivating 'Kirtan' and the invigorating Common Yoga Protocol at the historic Old Chancery complex.

"A guided meditation allowed participants to ground themselves and find tranquility. The atmosphere was further enhanced by a stunning performance that fused yoga with the elegance of Odissi! The audience was also mesmerized by remarkable advanced yoga displays," the Embassy of India in Beijing shared on X.

The Consulate General of India in Shanghai organized its premier IDY celebration, featuring yoga demonstrations, interactive sessions, and cultural activities. The event drew a diverse crowd, including diplomats, yoga aficionados, and community members.

Pratik Mathur, the Indian Consul General in Shanghai, underscored the event's significance, describing it as a reflection of the widespread appreciation for Indian civilization and culture.

In his welcoming remarks, Mathur stated, "This main celebration culminates a series of events throughout Eastern China, including Hangzhou, Wuxi, and Suzhou, conducted in collaboration with Indian diaspora groups, multinational corporations, and Buddhist monasteries, highlighting the extensive appeal of yoga and Indian heritage."

The Consul General also stressed yoga's universal significance, particularly in light of the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, which promotes harmony and health within communities.

"Yoga is a priceless legacy of India's ancient tradition. It embodies the unity of mind and body, thought and action, restraint and fulfillment, and harmony between humanity and nature," he added, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who advocated for the establishment of IDY at the United Nations.

Mathur also honored the victims of the recent Air India Flight AI-171 tragedy in Ahmedabad, stating, "Our hearts are heavy with this sorrow. In such times, yoga's teachings of resilience, mindfulness, and inner peace serve as a profound source of comfort and strength."

United Nations Resident Coordinator in China, Siddharth Chatterjee, attended as the chief guest.

While addressing the gathering, Chatterjee praised Prime Minister Modi's initiative in globalizing yoga and fostering a more interconnected world.

Expressing his appreciation for yoga's alignment with global well-being and unity, he remarked, "As a yoga practitioner, I deeply appreciate its transformative capacity to cultivate resilience and peace. This event symbolizes the shared commitment of India and the United Nations to enhance health and harmony, reinforcing ties between nations."

This event marked the conclusion of a series of IDY celebrations across Eastern China, showcasing yoga's broad appeal through partnerships with various stakeholders.

The Indian Consulate General expressed deep gratitude to Chatterjee and all attendees for contributing to the event's success.

Furthermore, a separate event took place along the picturesque banks of the Pearl River in Guangzhou, attracting enthusiastic participation from over 300 yoga practitioners.

Shambhu Hakki, the Indian Consul General in Guangzhou, also took part in the Yoga Day festivities. In his speech, he emphasized the surging popularity of yoga in South China and its role in reinforcing cultural bonds between India and China.