'Delightful to see youth embrace Yoga': PM Modi after Slovak schoolchildren's presentation
Bratislava, June 16
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he and Slovak President Peter Pellegrini were delighted to witness a special Yoga presentation by Slovak schoolchildren, highlighting the growing global appeal of the ancient Indian practice ahead of International Yoga Day.
Taking to the social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "President Pellegrini and I were delighted to witness a special Yoga demonstration by schoolchildren from Slovakia. As the world counts down to International Yoga Day, it is delightful to see the youth embrace Yoga. Also happy to see Yoga continuing to bring people together in the shared pursuit of well-being."
Meanwhile, a Yoga camp was also organised at the Presidential Palace of Slovakia on Monday.
Slovakian youth practised Yoga in the presence of PM Modi and President Pellegrini, as both leaders met at the palace.
"PM Narendra Modi, along with President Peter Pellegrini, observed a special Yoga demonstration performed by Slovak schoolchildren. Both leaders noted the expanding cultural engagement between India and Slovakia as well as the universal appeal of Yoga as a means of promoting physical well‑being, mental harmony and healthy living," the MEA had stated.
In a separate post, PM Modi also shared details of his interaction with Dr Robert Gafrik, a noted Slovak scholar who has played a key role in translating the Upanishads into the Slovak language.
"In Bratislava yesterday evening, I met Dr. Róbert Gáfrik, who has spearheaded the effort to translate the Upanishads into Slovak. His passion for Indian history, culture and spirituality is commendable," PM Modi said.
International Yoga Day is observed globally every year on June 21 to promote awareness about the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of Yoga. The idea was first proposed by Prime Minister Modi during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014.
Following overwhelming international support, the United Nations officially proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014. The date coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising harmony between humanity and nature.
Over the years, International Yoga Day has evolved into a global movement, with millions of people across countries participating in Yoga sessions and wellness programmes to promote holistic health and well-being.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is wonderful, but I hope we also focus on making yoga accessible to all Indians, especially in rural areas. Many schools still lack basic facilities for physical education.
As an American who practices yoga regularly, I'm thrilled to see it spreading globally. PM Modi's UN proposal was visionary. Yoga isn't just exercise—it's a lifestyle of mindfulness and balance.
It's heartwarming to see Slovak scholars translating Upanishads—real cultural bridge-building. Yoga as soft power is brilliant; it promotes well-being without politics. Kudos to all involved! 🙏
International Yoga Day has become a phenomenon! Every year I see more participation worldwide. But we must ensure we're preserving the authentic tradition, not just the physical postures.
Living in Canada, I've seen yoga studios everywhere—but many people don't know it's Indian in origin. Events like this help spread awareness about the deep cultural roots of yoga beyond just fitness trends.
The PM's consistency in promoting yoga globally is impressive. From the UN to Bratislava, he's making it a brand ambassador for India. That Slovak schoolchildren are practicing yoga shows it's truly universal. 🇮🇳✨