Embassy of India, Bucharest

to Romania and Moldova

Embassy of India

Bucharest

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 PRESS RELEASE 

IMBCO Celebrated the 12^th IDY 2026 and Indian cultural outreach programme in Chișinău on 28^th June 2026 at 0900 hrs

The Embassy of India, Bucharest, and concurrently accredited to Moldova, in association with the India-Moldova Business & Cultural Organisation (IMBCO) and the Municipality of Chisinau, Moldova, successfully organized the 12^th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 along with a vibrant Indian Cultural Outreach Programme at Dendrariu Park, Chișinău, on Sunday, 28 June 2026, from 0900 hrs onwards.

The programme formed part of a series of cultural and public diplomacy initiatives being undertaken in the Republic of Moldova to further strengthen the longstanding friendship between India and Moldova, promote India's rich cultural heritage and enhance people-to-people ties in the run-up to the State Visit of the Hon'ble President of India.

The celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of members of the Indian community, Moldovan citizens, yoga practitioners, students, diplomats and friends of India. The event highlighted India's timeless philosophy of holistic health, harmony and well-being through the practice of Yoga and showcased the country's rich cultural traditions.

The programme was graced by Ms. Irina Gutnic, Vice Primar of the Municipality of Chișinău, who addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts of the Embassy of India and IMBCO in promoting Yoga and Indian culture in Moldova. She highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening cultural exchanges and fostering closer ties between the people of the two countries.

Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra inaugurated the celebrations and addressed the gathering. In his remarks, the Ambassador underscored the universal appeal of Yoga as one of India's most precious gifts to humanity, promoting physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Referring to the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he highlighted that Yoga has evolved into a global movement for health, harmony and sustainable living, transcending national boundaries, cultures and religions. The Ambassador also emphasized this year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," and noted that Yoga inspires individuals to lead healthier, balanced and more mindful lives. He further underlined the growing cultural partnership between India and Moldova and expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic participation and warm response of the Moldovan people towards Yoga and India's rich cultural heritage.

As part of the larger cultural outreach programme, participants experienced a diverse range of Indian cultural activities, including Ayurveda awareness, Mehendi demonstrations, Indian cultural performances, traditional dance presentations and exhibitions showcasing India's rich civilizational heritage. The integration of these activities with the celebration of the International Day of Yoga provided visitors with a comprehensive experience of India's culture, traditions and wellness practices.

The programme also served as an important platform for promoting India's flagship global initiatives and enhancing awareness of India's cultural diplomacy in Moldova. Held during the summer season, the event attracted significant public participation and generated considerable interest among the local community.

The Embassy of India expressed its sincere appreciation to the India-Moldova Business & Cultural Organisation (IMBCO), the Municipality of Chișinău, yoga organisations, volunteers, members of the Indian community and all participants for their valuable support in making the celebrations a grand success.

The Embassy remains committed to further strengthening the warm and friendly relations between India and the Republic of Moldova through regular cultural exchanges and public diplomacy initiatives.

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Bucharest

28 June 2026