US state of Delaware proclaims June 21 as International Day of Yoga, recognising its role in health, well-being
New York, June 21
The US state of Delaware has officially recognised June 21, 2026, as the International Day of Yoga through a proclamation issued by Governor Matthew Meyer, highlighting yoga's contribution to physical, mental and emotional well-being.
The development was welcomed by the Consulate General of India in New York, which expressed gratitude to the Delaware Governor for the recognition.
In a spot on X, the Consulate General stated that the recognition highlights yoga's increasing acceptance as a universal means of promoting health, harmony and overall well-being.
It further acknowledged the contribution of the Indian American Community in Delaware in helping organise and support the celebrations.
"The Consulate General of India, New York is sincerely grateful to Hon'ble Governor Matthew Meyer for the proclamation declaring June 21, 2026 as International Day of Yoga in the State of Delaware. This gracious recognition reaffirms the growing resonance of yoga as a shared pathway to health, harmony and holistic well-being. We also appreciate the efforts of Indian American Community Delaware in supporting the celebrations," the post read.
In the proclamation, Governor Meyer described yoga as a 5,000-year-old ancient practice originating in India that integrates the mind, body and spirit to enhance overall health and well-being.
The proclamation noted that yoga promotes physical strength, flexibility, mental clarity and emotional balance, while also providing valuable tools for stress management and improving community health.
It further highlighted that the United Nations designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga to raise global awareness about the many benefits associated with the practice.
The United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014, following the proposal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address at the opening of the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on September 27, 2014.
The proclamation also acknowledged the efforts of the Indian American Community of Delaware, in association with the Consulate General of India in New York, in organising local celebrations aimed at bringing citizens together and promoting wellness, peace and unity through healthy living.
"Now, Therefore, I, Matthew Meyer, Governor, do hereby proclaim June 21, 2026 as INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA in the State of Delaware and encourage all residents to explore this practice for a healthier lifestyle," the proclamation stated.
The recognition comes as communities across the United States and around the world mark the International Day of Yoga with events focused on promoting physical fitness, mindfulness and holistic wellness.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is great news, but I wish Indian governments would spend as much on promoting yoga in rural schools as they do on international PR. Our own kids often don't get proper yoga classes. Just saying.
As someone from the US who practices yoga regularly, I think this is fantastic. Yoga has changed my life—reduced my stress and improved my flexibility. Glad to see Delaware joining the global celebration!
Hats off to the Indian-American community in Delaware for making this happen! It takes real effort to get a state government to issue a proclamation. Yoga is truly India's gift to the world. 🧘♂️
I appreciate the recognition, but let’s not forget that yoga is often commercialised in the West in ways that dilute its spiritual roots. Still, it’s good that more people are being encouraged to try it for their health.
Yaay! Another win for Indian soft power. From UN to Delaware, yoga is spreading like a beautiful wave. I've been doing it for years and it helps with my anxiety so much. Proud moment! 💪
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