Indian Embassy Hosts Grand Yoga Celebrations in Lumbini and Pokhara

The Embassy of India in Nepal, in association with local partners, celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) with grand events in Pokhara and Lumbini on 19 and 20 June 2024, respectively. The theme for this year’s International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Self and Society,” emphasizing the role of Yoga in promoting individual well-being and societal harmony.

On 19 June, the Embassy of India organized a vibrant Yoga demonstration on the scenic banks of Phewa Lake in Pokhara. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local community, including officials from local administration, members of various local Yoga organizations, retired Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army, and staff from the Embassy’s Pension Paying Office (PPO) in Pokhara. The celebration began early in the morning with a series of Yoga sessions led by experienced instructors, showcasing a range of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation techniques. Participants were guided through the physical and mental benefits of each practice, emphasizing the holistic approach of Yoga to health and well-being. Additionally, the Embassy organized a Yoga demonstration and health consultation with Ayurvedic practitioners in collaboration with Pokhara University. Prof. Prem Narayan Aryal, Vice Chancellor of Pokhara University, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He thanked the Embassy for organizing the event and encouraged students to explore the benefits of Yoga for leading mindful and healthy lives. Reputed Yoga instructors delivered lectures on the practical utility of Yoga, especially for the youth, and Ayurveda experts provided valuable insights on incorporating Ayurveda and Yoga into daily routines.

The following day, on 20 June, a large-scale Yoga demonstration was held at Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The event was organized by the Embassy of India in Nepal in collaboration with the Lumbini Development Trust. Chief Minister of Lumbini, Jokh Bahadur Mahara, was the Chief Guest for the event. He expressed gratitude to the Embassy of India for organizing this significant event at the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, which he said would strengthen cultural ties between India and Nepal. The Chief Minister highlighted that the International Day of Yoga would help generate greater awareness about Yoga, leading to a healthier and more balanced society. More than 900 Yoga enthusiasts from the region participated in the event, alongside senior officials of the Lumbini Development Trust. Ambassador of India to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, noted that Yoga has become a global phenomenon, particularly since the United Nations designated 21 June as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 based on a proposal by India. He said that Lumbini, a symbol of peace and harmony, provides a perfect setting to celebrate the timeless practice of Yoga. Ambassador Srivastava also announced that the Embassy of India would collaborate annually with the Lumbini Development Trust to celebrate the International Day of Yoga in Lumbini.

These events in Lumbini and Pokhara are part of a series of activities conducted by the Embassy of India to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga across various cities in Nepal. The Embassy, in association with Pokhara Metropolitan City, will continue the celebrations with a mega Yoga demonstration at the Pokhara Rangshala Stadium tomorrow.