'Yoga originated in ancient India, unites people across world': British High Commission marks International Yoga Day
New Delhi, June 21
The British High Commission in India marked International Yoga Day on Sunday, lauding the ancient Indian practice for uniting people worldwide.
In a post on X, the British High Commission in India said, "On International Yoga Day, we join millions across the world in celebrating a practice that originated in ancient India and today unites people across the world in a shared sense of balance and wellbeing."
British Deputy High Commission in Bengaluru also marked the International Yoga Day 2026, with a session on this year's theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'.
In a post on X, the British Deputy High Commission in Bengaluru said, "Our team marked International Yoga Day 2026, with a session on 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'. We join the High Commission of India in London, the Indian diaspora in the UK, and communities worldwide, in celebrating Yoga and the living, breathing connection between our nations."
Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar celebrated the International Day of Yoga with the Diplomatic Corps.
In a post on X, he said, "Joined the Diplomatic Corps at New Delhi to celebrate the International Day of Yoga. As PM Narendra Modi highlighted, we must strive to make yoga a part of our lives, part of our families, and a part of our coming generations."
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga, performing yoga asanas alongside thousands of people at Kolkata's Red Road and asserting that yoga has the power to unite the entire world.
This year's theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', reflects the growing global emphasis on healthy and active living across the lifespan. As populations age and non-communicable diseases and lifestyle-related health concerns rise globally, the emphasis is shifting from simply adding years to life to enhancing health span, quality of life and overall well-being.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who started yoga during the pandemic, I can vouch for its benefits. The British High Commission recognizing its Indian roots is a nice touch. More of this cross-cultural appreciation, please!
So glad to see the British High Commission acknowledging that yoga originated in ancient India. It's unfortunate how some people try to claim yoga as their own or strip it of its Indian identity. Let's ensure we respect the roots while sharing it globally. Yoga isn't just exercise—it's a way of life.
Living in India for the past few years, I've truly come to appreciate yoga beyond the Westernized versions I knew back in the UK. The British High Commission's participation is a step in the right direction—acknowledging the cultural heritage while embracing the universal benefits. Yoga for healthy ageing is a fantastic theme!
Good to see this recognition, but I wish the British High Commission would do more than just a social media post. Where's the tangible action? We need more people-to-people exchanges, yoga teacher training collaborations, and cultural programs. But yes, any step toward acknowledging India's contributions is welcome. Baby steps, I suppose.
The 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing' theme is especially relevant given how many of our elders face lifestyle diseases. My grandmother does yoga daily at 78 and she's more active than me! 😅 The British High Commission joining in shows how far this Indian heritage has traveled. Proud daughter of India!
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