Yoga, an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India, is bringing humanity together as it is embraced by the communities across the countries.
Almost a decade ago on December 11, 2014, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a Resolution, proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175 Member States, proclaiming June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
The proposal was first introduced by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, in his address during the opening of the 69th Session of the UNGA.
In a decade since its adoption in 2014, yoga has transcended boundaries growing into a popular movement presenting to the world a holistic way of life - practicing unity of mind and body, balancing through action; and promoting health and well-being.
Yoga has, indeed, helped millions to stay healthy, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic as it played an important role in reducing side -effects of the pandemic.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends inclusion of yoga into daily activities at schools, workplaces and communities to promote health, prevent and manage diseases-including the non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
This year marks the 10th International Day of Yoga with the theme "Yoga for Self and Society".
On this occasion, Modi has through his personal message thanked Malaysia's Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his contribution towards promoting yoga in Malaysia and counted on his support in making International Day of Yoga celebrations a grand success this year.
Modi has also encouraged everyone to make yoga an integral part of their lives. He also said that yoga offers a sanctuary of calm, enabling us to navigate life's challenges with calm and fortitude.
It is now widely recognized that yoga serves as a bridge between the individual and society, fostering a consciousness of unity, of being one and of being together.
These values have greater resonance today when the world is facing unprecedented challenges - wars and conflicts, climate crisis and natural calamities, life-style diseases and stress of modern day life.
Yoga is a popular practice in Malaysia as well. Apart from numerous yoga schools, Malaysia has many devoted yoga practitioners, instructors and enthusiasts.
The government of Malaysia also recognizes yoga as among one of 103 sports gazetted under the Sports Development Act (Act 576) of Malaysia.
Continuing the tradition, the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur, together with the United Nations representation in Malaysia, is observing the 10th International Day of Yoga with great enthusiasm at the iconic Batu Caves premises tomorrow.
Over 1000 yoga enthusiasts are expected to join and celebrate the power of yoga. Best wishes to all on the 10th International Day of Yoga.
* The writer is High Commissioner of India to Malaysia