In commemoration of the 9th International Day of Yoga (IDY), the High Commission of India in Colombo, along with its cultural arm Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Consulate General of India in Jaffna, Consulate General of India in Hambantota, and the Assistant High Commission of India in Kandy, will host a range of events across Sri Lanka from June 17th to June 21st, 2023.
Under the theme “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” a grand public event will take place at Independence Square in Colombo on June 17th from 6:45 AM onwards, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Government of Sri Lanka.
The event, which is free to the public, aims to highlight the significance of yoga for holistic well-being. Additionally, on June 21st, the High Commission will organize another yoga event at the Port of Colombo.
This year’s IDY will witness a unique initiative to connect yoga enthusiasts from the “Arctic to the Antarctic.” The 9th edition of IDY will feature yoga performances at select port locations worldwide, forming a “Global Ocean Ring.” Emphasizing the theme of India’s ongoing G20 Presidency, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future), IDY 2023 aims to foster a sense of unity and wellness among people globally.
To promote yoga as a regular wellness routine for Sri Lankans, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre launched a 50-day lead-up campaign to IDY 2023. Since May 1st, 2023, the SVCC, in collaboration with government institutions, yoga organizations, and local partners, has been organizing yoga events, workshops, lectures, and demonstrations for people of all ages and professions. Notable highlights of the campaign include a yoga workshop for indigenous medicine doctors, a yoga session at the Colombo Municipal Council grounds, and an ongoing 3-day island-wide workshop for defence forces.
It is worth noting that the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2014, spearheaded by India, proclaiming June 21st as the “International Day of Yoga.” The resolution received support from over 170 countries, including Sri Lanka as a co-sponsor.
Yoga, like Ayurveda, holds a significant place in the shared heritage of India and Sri Lanka. Since 2015, Indian diplomatic offices in Sri Lanka have celebrated the International Day of Yoga with the participation of Sri Lankan leaders and the public, drawing thousands of attendees each year. Even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual events in 2020 and 2021, as well as a hybrid mode event at Independence Square in 2022, witnessed enthusiastic participation.
The 9th International Day of Yoga celebrations aims to foster a sense of harmony, well-being, and unity among the people of Sri Lanka, promoting the timeless practice of yoga for a healthier and happier society.
