21st day of June (International Day of Yoga) has now firmly etched itself as a special day in the lives of billions of people across the globe, cutting across countries, regions, religions, gender, race, colour etc.
Yoga, the age old tradition from India, personifies India’s belief in the concept – “Vasudevakutumbakam – One World One Family”. It is a day that celebrates the unity of purpose of the human race, which is to lead sustainable, healthy and happy lives. That is the philosophy behind the science and practice of Yoga; to build a confluence and congruence of mind and body, leading to a truly holistic way of life.
This holistic approach is beyond just the individual as this tradition extends to communities and societies, and even to nature. A sense of oneness is imparted bringing the individual and community together in a truly unifying manner.
In these unprecedented times that the world finds itself in, Yoga plays an even larger role in facing this pandemic of global proportions. It is not just limited to the physical and mental being of individuals who practice it (by building immunity and mental resilience) but also has significance at a broader community level in creating a sense of belonging and universal brotherhood in all of us.
This year, it will be a wholly different experience for all of us as we mark the 6th year of International Day of Yoga celebrations in a truly unique fashion. We will be celebrating this day by coming together, in spirit if not in the physical sense, from our respective places following all the necessary precautions related to COVID-19.
In times like these, we have to remain united more than ever in our largest quest for universal health, happiness and peace. Let us all join together in the spirit in celebrating this unique day, which is a gift that we, the human race, have given to ourselves and continue to derive strength from within and from our extended communities and learn from our rich traditions and practices.
Raj Gopal Singh
Chargé d’ Affaires
Embassy of India – Kuwait
21 JUNE 2020