India to Host the 2nd Asian Yogasana Championships from March 29 to 31

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Event Dates: March 29-31, 2025
- Location: Indira Gandhi Arena, New Delhi
- Participants: At least 16 countries expected
- Goal: Promote Yogasana as a competitive sport globally
- Support: Backed by major sports organizations
New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in partnership with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Yogasana Bharat, has revealed plans for the 2nd Asian Yogasana Championship, scheduled to take place from March 29 to 31, 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Arena.
A minimum of 16 countries are set to participate, with more anticipated, aiming to elevate Yogasana as a recognized sport on an international stage while honoring its profound cultural heritage.
The championship seeks to enhance the global profile of Yogasana and pave the way for its inclusion in the Olympics as a competitive discipline.
This event has garnered support from prominent organizations, including the Olympic Council of Asia, World Yogasana, Asian Yogasana, and Yogasana Indraprastha. The vision is to position Yogasana as a mainstream global sport, showcasing its elements of balance, strength, and flexibility, which reflect the sport's vast potential.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized India's crucial role in the global journey of Yoga, stating, "India, the birthplace of Yoga, is privileged to host the 2nd Asian Yogasana Championship. This event transcends competition; it embodies a celebration of our ancient wisdom evolving into a contemporary sport. We are dedicated to establishing Yogasana as a global sporting discipline, and this championship marks a pivotal step toward that objective.
"This event not only highlights the athleticism of Yogasanas but also its transformative power, both physically and mentally. I look forward to a successful championship that promotes the principle of holistic well-being worldwide, led by India.
Sanjay Malpani, president of Asian Yogasana, remarked on the championship's significance, stating, "The 2nd Asian Yogasana Championship is a milestone in our mission to establish Yogasanas as a universally acknowledged sport. We are witnessing a blend of tradition and modern athletic excellence. This championship demonstrates that Yogasana is more than a practice; it is a sport that requires precision, endurance, and artistry. With each athlete's participation, we move closer to Yogasana's rightful position on the global stage."
As recognition of Yogasana as a sport continues to grow, the championship is expected to attract considerable attention from the international sporting community. It serves as a vital step toward Yogasana's inclusion in global multi-sport events, raising awareness and excitement for this ancient practice within a contemporary sports context.
Jaideep Arya, secretary general of World Yogasana, stated, "The 2nd Asian Yogasana Championship in New Delhi unites outstanding athletes from across Asia, showcasing the strength, flexibility, and discipline that characterize this ancient practice. We are delighted to witness the rising enthusiasm for Yogasana and remain dedicated to its evolution as a prominent sporting discipline. May this event inspire future generations to embrace Yogasana for both competitive excellence and holistic well-being."
Udit Sheth, president of Yogasana Bharat, added, "This championship symbolizes India's leadership in the global Yogasana movement. As the world increasingly acknowledges the tremendous benefits of Yogasanas, we are at the forefront, shaping its future as a sport. Our mission is to provide young athletes with a platform to excel, elevate Yogasanas to premier sporting events, and reinforce India's commitment to sharing this invaluable heritage with the world."