UNITED NATIONS (TIP): The Second International Day of Yoga was celebrated at the United Nations June 21, 2016. Speaking on the occasion, India‘s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said the celebration of IDY at the UN “has a special resonance” since it was here that the summer solstice was chosen for the IDY. He felt pleased to state that a record number of nationalities-135- were represented at the Yoga Day celebrations. He extended a hearty welcome to all.
United Nations Secretary General Ban ki-Moon in his message said, “This year’s observance of the International Day of Yoga highlights the important role healthy living plays in the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals, adopted last year by all 193 United Nations Member States.”
In his Video message PM Narendra Modi described Yoga as “invaluable gift of ancient India”.
The External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, “We all are participants in this great celebration of health and spirituality”.
Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly described Yoga as a union of mental, physical and spiritual faculties.
Ms. Cristina Gallach, UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information and the Yoga Guru Sadhguru also spoke on the occasion. Sadhguru gave lessons in Yoga.
