2015 - International Day of Yoga | Commemorative Coin

The 5th commemorative coin of 2015 was released to mark the First International Day of Yoga.

The International Day of Yoga is a global celebration of an ancient Indian tradition that has evolved into a universal practice promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Observed every year on June 21, the day highlights the timeless relevance of yoga and its power to bring harmony between body and mind. The initiative to create such a day was led by India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposing it at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. His suggestion received overwhelming support, with 177 countries co-sponsoring the resolution—one of the highest levels of endorsement ever for a UN proposal. The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated on June 21, 2015, marking the beginning of a collective global movement centred on health, mindfulness, and unity.

Yoga, rooted in India’s ancient cultural and philosophical heritage, goes far beyond physical exercise. It encompasses a holistic system of practices that encourage balance in every aspect of life. From asanas that strengthen the body to pranayama that regulates breath and meditation that calms the mind, yoga offers a complete framework for overall well-being. The International Day of Yoga serves as a reminder of this holistic approach, encouraging people around the world to incorporate these practices into their daily lives. Over the years, the celebration has grown immensely, with millions participating in mass yoga events, workshops, seminars, and public demonstrations.

The global observance has also helped break cultural barriers by demonstrating that yoga is not limited by geography, language, religion, or age. Schools, universities, armed forces, hospitals, and community groups across continents take part in the celebrations, showcasing yoga’s inclusiveness and universal appeal. Cities illuminate monuments in blue, governments organize nationwide events, and practitioners share their experiences through digital platforms, turning the day into a worldwide festival of health and harmony. Each year carries a unique theme, often focusing on issues like climate action, community well-being, or global peace, linking yoga to broader human values and global challenges.

In India, the International Day of Yoga holds a special place as a reaffirmation of the country’s cultural heritage. Large national events are often led by the Prime Minister and other dignitaries, with lakhs of people participating in coordinated yoga sessions across states. Institutions like the Ministry of AYUSH and numerous yoga organizations contribute to promoting research, training, and awareness, ensuring that the science of yoga reaches grassroots levels. The day also strengthens India’s soft power by presenting yoga as a gift to humanity—one that fosters inner stability, compassion, resilience, and mindful living.

The International Day of Yoga has transformed into a unifying global tradition that celebrates the pursuit of health and inner peace. It reminds individuals to pause amid the pressures of modern life and reconnect with their breath, body, and inner self. As the world continues to face challenges related to physical health, mental stress, and social divisions, yoga offers a timeless path to balance and harmony. The day stands as a testament to the idea that a simple practice rooted in ancient wisdom can inspire global well-being and contribute to a more peaceful and conscious world.

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