Yoga unites nations, promotes equality and friendship: Serbian Ambassador in Rishikesh on Yoga Day
Rishikesh, June 21
Serbia's Ambassador to India, Sinisa Pavic, participated in the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Rishikesh on Sunday and said it was an "immense pleasure" for him to mark his sixth Yoga Day in India, describing yoga and Ayurveda as key elements of India's cultural identity and global outreach.
Speaking on the occasion, the Serbian envoy said the celebration by the banks of the Ganga was especially meaningful and highlighted how Yoga Day brings together diplomats from across the world. He noted that the initiative, strongly promoted under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has become a global platform for cultural connection and dialogue.
"For me, it is an immense pleasure that I celebrate already the sixth Yoga Day in India... here beside the Ganga river, a very special place," Pavic said. He added that Yoga and Ayurveda represent "the Indian respect for yoga and the Ayurvedic way of life as part of the identity of the Indian nation," and stressed that their importance lies in connecting "different nations and different people."
The ambassador further said that Yoga Day offered an opportunity to share experiences with colleagues from different countries, adding that the event in Rishikesh allowed participants to not only practice yoga together but also strengthen friendship and communication among nations.
Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Parmarth Niketan, also addressed the gathering and said that yoga represents equality and unity beyond social divisions. He said that diplomats and officials from around 25 countries participated in the session along the banks of the Ganga, where people from the ages of "a two-year-old girl to a 92-year-old woman" joined in, reflecting that yoga does not discriminate between rich and poor.
Swami Chidanand Saraswati described yoga as a "philosophy of joining hearts," adding that the International Day of Yoga has become a global celebration of wellness and harmony. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for popularising the initiative at the international level, including at the United Nations, and said yoga promotes discipline, positivity, and emotional balance.
He also praised Modi's energy and commitment, saying it is "commendable" and inspired by the practice of yoga itself, which he described as a powerful tool for physical and mental transformation.
The event in Rishikesh once again highlighted India's growing role in positioning yoga as a global wellness practice and a bridge for international cultural engagement.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Swami Chidanand Saraswati rightly said - yoga is for everyone, from a 2-year-old to a 92-year-old. No discrimination. That is the real India. But I wish the event also showed some local yoga teachers getting recognition, not just foreign dignitaries.
Big thumbs up for PM Modi's push for International Yoga Day at UN. When world leaders do Surya Namaskar, it automatically boosts India's soft power. But we need more focus on scientific research of yoga rather than just ceremonial events.
As someone from outside India who practices yoga regularly, this article makes me happy. The way yoga connects people across borders is amazing. Rishikesh must be such a peaceful place for this celebration.
Nice event but honestly, these are photo ops for foreign diplomats. Meanwhile, many Indians still struggle with basic healthcare. Yoga is great but let's not forget real issues like poverty and pollution. Just saying. 🙏
"Philosophy of joining hearts" - beautiful words from Swami Chidanand Saraswati. Yoga Day in Rishikesh along the Ganga is spiritual perfection. Proud that our ancient wisdom is now a global movement. आत्मनो मोक्षार्थं जगद्धिताय च 😌
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