Press Release: International Day of Yoga Celebrations 2017 06/21/2017

On 21 June 2017, the Embassy of India Beijing organized a yoga event with ~1000 Indian and Chinese participants. The highlight of the event was the participation of all the major Chinese yoga groups in Beijing, including Yogi Yoga, Le Yoga, Orange Yoga, Qingai Yoga, PV Yoga, Om Shiva Yoga, Nirvana Fitness, Nirvana Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Guiling Yoga, and Tianyue International Yoga, which have also spread nationwide in China. The huge turnout of Chinese lovers from all walks of life, young and old, men and women is a testimony to the growing popularity of yoga in China.

A video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on the significance of yoga for mankind was screened at the opening of the event. Charge d'Affaires Shri Amit Narang said that with the growing popularity of yoga in China, it can act as a bridge between India and China and has the potential for enhancing exchanges and amity between the Indian and Chinese people. He also spoke on yoga's value for ensuring human well being and paving a way for global peace and harmony.

A 40-minute Yoga session comprising postures (Asanas) and breathing exercises (Pranayam) based on the Common Yoga Protocol was conducted by Embassy's Yoga Guru Shri Umesh Babu. 20 young Yoga Ambassadors from Morarji Desai Institute India joined the event and also performed an amazing display of advanced yogic poses.

The event follows yesterday's unique yoga performance on the iconic Great Wall, demonstrating the major and growing interest in yoga among the Chinese people.

Embassy's week long celebrations to commemorate 3rd International Day of Yoga will culminate tomorrow with the participation of the group of young Yoga Ambassadors to Langfang city in Hebei province to participate in a unique Jugalbandi of Yoga with the ancient Chinese system of Taichi.