Yoga Day Countdown Begins in Puducherry with Enthusiasm

A vibrant spirit of wellness filled the serene coastal city of today as Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, inaugurated the 25-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025. The occasion drew over 6,000 yoga enthusiasts to Gandhi Thidal on Goubert Avenue, Beach Road, where the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), under the aegis of the Ministry of Ayush, hosted a spectacular Yoga Mahotsav.

The countdown event was elevated by the esteemed presence of Puducherry’s Lieutenant Governor, Thiru K. Kailashnathan, and Chief Minister, Thiru N. Rangasamy, who graced the occasion and shared inspiring insights on the vital role of Yoga in today’s world.

Puducherry: A Perfect Backdrop for Yoga

Puducherry, known for its tranquil beaches, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual ethos, offered an idyllic setting for this grand Yoga celebration. Often described as a “living example of preserving the eternal values of Indian culture amidst diversity,” the city’s deep-rooted connection to holistic wellness provided an ideal backdrop for the countdown to the global Yoga event.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Prataprao Jadhav highlighted the enduring significance of Yoga in today’s world. He remarked, “Yoga is far more than a physical exercise—it is an ancient discipline of holistic living that harmonizes the mind and body. Those who embrace Yoga experience inner peace, strength, and mental clarity.” He also praised the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, whose dedicated efforts brought global recognition to Yoga, culminating in the United Nations proclaiming June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.

Highlighting the 2025 theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” Shri Jadhav remarked, “This theme perfectly encapsulates our collective aspiration for a healthier planet and a healthier humanity. Yoga is a vital need of our times and a cornerstone of a healthy future — this is the message we aim to share from the historic and serene land of Puducherry.

Dignitaries Highlight Yoga’s Legacy and Global Reach

Lieutenant Governor Thiru K. Kailashnathan reflected on Yoga’s ancient roots as a science of holistic well-being, stating, “It signifies the union of body and mind. It is a way of life integrating mental fortitude and physical well-being. Our ancestors have preserved and passed it down to us for thousands of years.” He also credited Prime Minister Modi’s pivotal role in popularizing Yoga globally and acknowledged how Yoga is increasingly being integrated into educational curricula, workplaces, and defense sectors worldwide.

Chief Minister Thiru N. Rangasamy highlighted Puducherry’s spiritual environment and its role as a global destination for peace and inner exploration. “Yoga is a journey of inner exploration, self-connection, and harmony with nature. It is a matter of pride that Puducherry has hosted this special event today,” he said.

Celebrating Yoga Through Mass Demonstrations and Technology

A major highlight of the event was the large-scale mass demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), led by experts from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga. Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director of MDNIY, alongside Dr. Lakshmi Kandan, Assistant Professor (Yoga Therapy), showcased live yoga practices, drawing enthusiastic participation from the thousands gathered.

The event also celebrated the rising engagement with the Yoga Sangam Portal (), which has witnessed over 12,000 registrations since its launch during the 50-day countdown event in Nashik. This surge in participation reflects the growing public enthusiasm and acceptance of Yoga across India and beyond.

Road to International Day of Yoga 2025: A Series of Milestones

The Puducherry event is part of a carefully orchestrated sequence of celebrations leading up to IDY 2025. Key previous milestones include:

• 100-day countdown celebration at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi (13 March 2025)
• 75-day event at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar (7 April 2025)
• 50-day event at Nashik (2 May 2025)

Each event has reinforced the message of Yoga’s transformational impact on physical health, mental clarity, social harmony, and global wellness.

The 10 Signature Events of International Day of Yoga 2025

IDY 2025 is set to be the most expansive edition yet, featuring 10 unique signature events aimed at broadening Yoga’s reach and impact:

Yoga Sangam – Synchronized Yoga demonstrations at 100,000 locations across India and globally.

Yoga Bandhan – Global exchange programs and knowledge-sharing sessions among Yoga experts.

Yoga Parks – Development of dedicated Yoga parks to promote long-term community engagement.

Yoga Samavesh – Special programs for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities), senior citizens, children, and marginalized communities.

Yoga Prabhav – A decade-long impact assessment of Yoga’s role in improving public health.

Yoga Connect – A Global Online Yoga Summit bringing together experts, policymakers, and health specialists worldwide.

Harit Yoga – Sustainability initiative combining Yoga with environmental activities like tree planting and clean-up drives.

Yoga Unplugged – Events aimed at engaging youth and making Yoga appealing to younger generations.

Yoga Maha Kumbh – A week-long festival held simultaneously at 10 locations across India.

Samyoga – Translating Yoga’s evidence-based benefits into modern and contemporary medicine.

A Celebration of Health, Harmony, and Heritage

The countdown event and the upcoming International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations signify more than just physical fitness routines — they embody a movement towards holistic health, mental peace, and environmental sustainability. Yoga’s growing global embrace is a tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage and the leadership driving its resurgence on the world stage.

Puducherry’s hosting of this major milestone reflects the city’s enduring spiritual legacy and its role as a beacon of inner peace and wellness. With over 6,000 participants and thousands more engaged online, the countdown event has set a positive, energetic tone for what promises to be a historic and inclusive International Day of Yoga celebration.