The Indian Embassy organized a function on the occasion of the fifth annual International Day of Yoga, recognized by the United Nations, at the Embassy premises on 20 June. Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs and, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait H.E. Ambassador Ali Sulaiman Al-Saeid, was the Chief Guest, while Acting Secretary General, National Council for Culture, Art and Letters Kamel Al-Adbul Jaleel was the Guest of Honor. The gathering of attendees included members of the Diplomatic Corps, Kuwaiti officials, members of the Indian community and well-wishers.
A video message by Honorable Prime Minister of India was read out on the occasion. The two Guests of Honor in their respective addresses underscored the relevance of Yoga in today’s world, and expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the Government of India towards spreading Yoga practice across the globe. In addition, in the speeches it was mentioned that yoga has the potential to promote peace and harmony. On his part, the Ambassador of India, H.E. Jeeva Sagar praised the practice of yoga today as a global movement.
A high point of the evening was the on-stage demonstration of yoga exercises led by yoga teachers.
The United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga on 11 December, 2014, with the aim to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The fifth annual International Day of Yoga was celebrated at the United Nations on Thursday, 20 June, 2019, under the theme ‘Yoga for Climate Action’.