Prime Minister Narendra Modi Spearheads Mass Yoga Session in New Delhi
On Sunday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi guided tens of thousands of participants in a yoga session held in the heart of the capital, New Delhi. This event aimed to showcase India’s renowned cultural export, yoga, which has garnered global recognition and has sparked conversations surrounding its role in society.
As part of the ancient Hindu tradition, yoga has emerged as a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States and is celebrated worldwide on International Yoga Day, an initiative spearheaded by Modi upon taking office last year.
Grand Celebration at Rajpath
Over 35,000 individuals gathered at Rajpath, a prestigious boulevard in Delhi, donning white attire and unfurling yoga mats. They embarked on a series of 21 asanas, or postures, commencing with a prayer and chanting of Om. Modi, adorned in a loose kurta and trousers, joined the participants, focusing on various physical regions such as the neck and spine. The session culminated in a guided meditation.
Controversy and Criticism
While this event sought to promote well-being and unity, it has also faced criticism from activists and minority groups who express concern that Modi’s Hindu nationalist supporters are attempting to impose yoga on these communities and educational institutions. Others argue that they already practice yoga as part of their personal routines and do not require governmental direction.
Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi and a fervent opponent of Modi, participated in the event but emphasized the need to separate yoga from political agendas.
Global Participation and International Significance
Over 170 nations, including the United States and France, are anticipated to organize their own mass yoga gatherings. Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj will lead the event in New York’s Times Square.
Yoga, a practice with historical roots spanning thousands of years, has gained remarkable global prominence in recent decades as a holistic system for both the mind and body. Modi’s establishment of a dedicated yoga ministry last year underscores India’s commitment to revitalizing this ancient practice within its country of origin.
Record-Breaking Gathering
The government has submitted an application to the Guinness World Records to recognize Sunday’s event as the largest gathering of people performing yoga simultaneously in the capital.
Author: Dr. Anita Varma
Credit and Rights: OMG I Yoga
