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New Delhi, June 18, 2025 — In a vibrant celebration of India’s cultural diplomacy and global wellness leadership, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), under the Ministry of Ayush, inaugurated the international event ‘Yoga Bandhan’ on June 17th, 2025. This flagship programme, one of the 10 Signature Events leading up to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, brought together Yoga ambassadors, academicians, and wellness experts from 15 countries, highlighting Yoga’s growing global resonance.
India’s Yoga Diplomacy Takes Centre Stage
The event was graced by Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, who emphasized India’s visionary leadership in making Yoga a cornerstone of global wellness. Citing data from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), he noted that 95% of India’s population is aware of Ayush systems, with 35% actively practicing Yoga. “Yoga has found resonance across the world,” he remarked, reflecting on his international experiences.
Kotecha outlined ongoing initiatives under IDY 2025, such as Harit Yoga, Yoga Connect, and Samyoga, and highlighted the impressive scale of participation — over 330,000 Yoga events have already been organized globally, with projections reaching 500,000 by June 21st, the main day of IDY 2025. He also discussed the upgradation of the Yoga Certification Board (YCB) to meet the surging global demand for certified Yoga professionals, inviting international delegates to collaborate with the YCB.
Voices of Peace and Harmony
Ms. K. Nandini Singla, Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), lauded the international delegates, saying, “Thank you for being a voice of peace and harmony.” She emphasized the role of every Yoga enthusiast as a true ambassador, spreading Yoga’s benefits worldwide. Ms. Singla also proposed short-term Yoga courses for visiting dignitaries, further strengthening cultural ties.
Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, highlighted how IDY has evolved into a global movement transcending borders and uniting millions. She underscored this year’s theme, rooted in the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the world is one family.”
Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY, welcomed the international gathering, stating, “Yoga Bandhan reflects India’s unwavering commitment to sharing the timeless wisdom of Yoga with the global community.”
A Platform for Collaboration and Cultural Exchange
The event featured a guided tour of the MDNIY campus, interactive sessions on Yoga communication, and a cultural Yoga fusion performance by MDNIY students. Delegates explored collaborative opportunities in research, education, and training, fostering long-term institutional partnerships.
Distinguished international delegates included:
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Mr. Josh Pryor, President & CEO, Yoga Australia
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Mr. Gregor Kos, Yoga in Daily Life, Austria
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Prof. Danilo Forghieri Santaella, University of São Paulo, Brazil
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Ms. Yin Yan, Founder, Yogi Yoga, China
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Maj Ingemann-Molden, Denmark
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Mr. Slamat Riyanto, Chairperson, PPYNI, Indonesia
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Mrs. Vidya Volkova, Director, Shakti Yoga Studio, Kazakhstan
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Mr. Manisekaran and Mrs. Sinthamani Arunasalam, Malaysia
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Ms. Irina Fursova, Russia
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Dr. Sujata Cowlagi, Singapore
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Prof. Geo-lyong Lee, South Korea
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Mr. Kugan Naidoo and Ms. Sivlutchime Naidoo, South Africa
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Mr. Jose Maria Marquez Jurado (Gopala), Spain
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Mr. Vimukthi Jayasundara, Sri Lanka
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Ms. Rocio Belen Bonacci, Argentina
Over the coming days, these ambassadors will participate in cultural immersions, institutional visits, and policy-level dialogues, culminating in the grand International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations on June 21st.
Building a Healthier, Harmonious World
‘Yoga Bandhan’ stands as a testament to India’s soft power and enduring global leadership in Yoga. Through cross-cultural dialogue, institutional engagement, and knowledge sharing, the initiative aims to build a more harmonious, healthy, and connected world.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information provided by the Ministry of Ayush and related event organizers. The views and statements attributed to individuals are as per official event communications. Readers are advised to verify details independently if using this information for research or reporting purposes.
