In a stirring call for global unity and well-being, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged the international community to adopt inner peace as a global policy and make yoga a collective responsibility for humanity. Speaking at the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam, PM Modi emphasized that yoga is not just a personal practice, but a transformative tool for building a more harmonious world.
The event, held against the picturesque backdrop of the Bay of Bengal with Indian Navy ships stationed along the shoreline, witnessed a massive turnout of yoga enthusiasts, residents, students, and dignitaries from across Andhra Pradesh.
"Let this International Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for Humanity. Let inner peace become a global policy. Let yoga be a powerful force for global partnership, peace, and unity," said PM Modi in his keynote address.
Yoga for One Earth, One Health
Calling yoga a global bridge that connects body, mind, society, and nature, the Prime Minister launched a passionate appeal to turn yoga into a mass movement that transcends borders and beliefs.
"Let every person begin their day with yoga and find balance. Let every society be free from stress. Let yoga become the thread that binds all of humanity. Yoga for One Earth, One Health must become our shared resolution," he said.
From 'Me' to 'We'
Reflecting on yoga's deeper philosophy, PM Modi stressed that yoga teaches individuals to move beyond themselves and care for the broader ecosystem.
“Yoga is a journey from Me to We. It begins with personal wellness but naturally evolves into compassion for society, for nature, for the planet.”
He also acknowledged the growing global acceptance of yoga since the UN declared June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014 — an initiative originally proposed by India. PM Modi said the world’s enthusiastic response, with over 170 countries supporting the proposal in record time, reflects yoga’s universal appeal.
Appreciation for Andhra Pradesh Leadership
The Prime Minister extended heartfelt appreciation to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan for their support in organizing the grand event.
“I am truly delighted to be in Visakhapatnam, a city that beautifully blends nature with progress. I congratulate Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan for hosting this remarkable celebration. Your leadership is inspiring, and this initiative to promote yoga is highly commendable.”
Global Participation and Mass Appeal
The 2025 celebrations saw record participation across India and globally, with millions joining from over 150 countries in both physical and virtual formats. International dignitaries, wellness advocates, and spiritual leaders echoed Modi’s message of global unity through yoga.
