Marking the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Yoga, India is set to lead a massive global celebration on June 21, 2025. With the theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, the country will organise over 2,000 events across 1,300 locations in 191 nations — reaffirming yoga’s global reach and India’s enduring cultural influence.
Global Participation: 2,000 Events, 191 Countries
According to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), more than 2,000 events will be held worldwide, covering 1,300 cities. The initiative reflects India’s strategic use of yoga as soft power diplomacy, uniting diverse nations through a common practice rooted in ancient Indian wisdom.
Notably, the Indian High Commission in Pakistan will host a yoga event in Islamabad, demonstrating India’s intent to foster peaceful cultural outreach despite political complexities.
Signature Event: Yoga Bandhan
A highlight of this year’s celebration is ‘Yoga Bandhan’, where 17 yoga gurus from 15 countries — including Brazil, Argentina, Russia, China, South Africa, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Singapore, and South Korea — will lead sessions in India.
In Delhi, these international practitioners will conduct yoga at iconic landmarks like Jantar Mantar, Qutub Minar, Purana Quila, and Humayun’s Tomb. Similar programmes will take place in cities such as Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaipur, Bhopal, and Gwalior.
“Just as yoga is a union between Atma and Paramatma, ‘Yoga Bandhan’ seeks to unite India and the world,” said ICCR Director General K. Nandini Singla.
Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health
The 2025 theme — ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ — aligns with India’s G20 presidency vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” It underscores the link between individual health, collective wellbeing, and planetary sustainability.
Singla noted that preparations for this year’s Yoga Day began months in advance, with a 100-day awareness campaign. Countdown events were held at 100, 75, 50, and 25 days prior, across Indian embassies and consulates worldwide.
Yoga’s Rising Popularity Abroad
Yoga has gained traction among foreign dignitaries and civilians alike. From MPs and police officers to judges and legislators, a growing number of people abroad are incorporating yoga into their daily routines to manage stress and improve overall wellbeing.
“Our cultural centres abroad have become vibrant hubs of yoga,” said Singla. “Yoga has truly become a global movement.”
With widespread participation and a deeply resonant theme, International Day of Yoga 2025 is set to strengthen India’s global cultural footprint. As yoga continues to cross borders and unite people, this year’s celebration underscores its enduring relevance as a tool for harmony, health, and humanity.
