Embassy of India, Bucharest

to Romania and Moldova

Namaskar and a very warm welcome to all of you.

It gives me immense pleasure to join you today in celebrating the 12th International Day of Yoga here in the beautiful city of Bucharest. I am delighted to see such enthusiastic participation by our Romanian friends, members of the Indian community, children, students, yoga practitioners and wellness enthusiasts. Your presence reflects the growing popularity of yoga and the deepening people-to-people ties between India and Romania.

This year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," is particularly relevant in today's world. As life expectancy increases globally, maintaining physical fitness, mental well-being and emotional balance becomes increasingly important. Yoga offers a holistic approach to healthy living and provides a pathway towards a healthier, happier and more harmonious society.

Yoga is one of India's most precious gifts to humanity. Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, yoga transcends nationality, culture, religion and language. It unites people and promotes harmony between the body, mind and spirit. Recognizing its universal appeal and benefits, the United Nations General Assembly adopted, by consensus, a resolution in December 2014 proclaiming 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The resolution, introduced by India and supported by an unprecedented 177 countries, stands as a testimony to the universal acceptance of yoga.

Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, whose visionary proposal at the United Nations led to the establishment of the International Day of Yoga, has often emphasized that "Yoga is a journey from me to we" and that yoga offers humanity a way to live in harmony with nature and with one another. He has also underlined the importance of the philosophy of "One Earth, One Health," reminding us that the health of individuals, society and the planet are deeply interconnected.

Yoga is not merely a form of physical exercise. It is a way of life that teaches discipline, mindfulness, balance and compassion. In a world facing stress, anxiety and lifestyle-related diseases, yoga offers simple and effective solutions for promoting physical and mental well-being. It encourages us to pause, reflect and reconnect with ourselves and with the world around us.

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Ayush, has been actively promoting yoga as a powerful tool for preventive healthcare and sustainable living. The Ministry's initiatives align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality and sustainable communities. Yoga contributes significantly to achieving these goals by promoting healthy lifestyles and enhancing the quality of life of individuals and communities.

The theme of this year's celebration, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," seeks to improve the lives of older persons, their families and communities. Yoga helps people of all ages remain physically active, mentally alert and emotionally resilient, thereby contributing to healthy and dignified ageing.

Over the last several months, the Embassy of India has actively promoted yoga through numerous outreach programmes, workshops and yoga sessions organized in schools, universities, corporate institutions and community organizations throughout Romania. These activities have received tremendous support and appreciation from our Romanian friends and yoga associations.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Ayush and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations for their continued support in promoting yoga worldwide. I also thank the authorities of Romania, the Municipality of Bucharest, the Police and the Jandarmeria, as well as our partner organizations and volunteers, for their valuable cooperation in making today's event possible.

I would also like to acknowledge the contributions of the Brahma Kumaris, Isha Foundation, Sahaj Yoga and various yoga groups and institutions whose dedication has helped spread the message of wellness and harmony.

Friends,

Yoga teaches us that peace begins within each one of us. As we celebrate the International Day of Yoga, let us renew our commitment to a healthier and more sustainable future. Let us embrace the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the World is One Family – and work together for the well-being of humanity.

May yoga continue to inspire us to lead lives of balance, compassion and harmony.

I thank you all for joining us today and wish you happiness, health and inner peace.

Thank you.