June 21: In a vivid tribute to India’s ancient heritage and holistic wellness tradition, Indiatourism Delhi, under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, commemorated the 11th International Day of Yoga with a large-scale yoga session at the historic Sun Dial Lawns of the Qutub Minar Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Themed “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” (एक पृथ्वी, एक स्वास्थ्य के लिए योग), the event highlighted the deep-rooted connection between human well-being and environmental harmony.
Gracing the occasion were key dignitaries, including MLA Shri Gajendra Singh Yadav, South Delhi District Magistrate Shri Lakshay Singhal, and senior representatives from the Embassy of Sri Lanka — Deputy High Commissioner Ms. Priyanga Wickramasinghe and Minister Counsellor Ms. Wathsala Amarasinghe. Their presence added diplomatic resonance to the cultural initiative, reinforcing yoga’s growing global footprint.
Leading the mass session was acclaimed yoga practitioner Shri Gopal Rishi from Sukrit Wellness, who, along with his team, guided over 400 participants through sequences of asanas and pranayama. His address underlined yoga’s ability to restore balance — mentally, physically, and spiritually — especially in today’s high-pressure world.
The event saw spirited participation from across diverse segments, including officials from the Ministry of Tourism, members of travel industry bodies like IATO, ADTOI, and TAAI, Regional Level Tourist Guides, Yuva Tourism Club students, faculty and students from the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Pusa, ASI officials, and local citizens.
The celebration opened with a welcome address by the Regional Director (North), followed by remarks from the chief guest, Shri Gajendra Singh Yadav. Participants also tuned in to the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address, which added a sense of national unity and purpose to the gathering.
To mark their involvement, attendees received yoga kits comprising mats, T-shirts, and caps. Students of IHM Pusa contributed by hosting segments of the programme and articulating how yoga bridges tourism, health, and cultural identity.
The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by the Principal of IHM, honouring the collective spirit of collaboration and participation that made the programme a resounding success. Held amidst the backdrop of one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks, the celebration reinforced India’s global role in promoting yoga as a timeless path to health, unity, and inner peace.
