Over 190 Countries celebrate 2nd International Day of Yoga

The second International Day of Yoga is being celebrated today in 191 member countries of United Nations. The theme for this year is ‘Connect the Youth’.

Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj earlier said that among 193 member countries of United Nations, 191 countries, except Libya and Yemen, would be celebrating Yoga Day this year.

On the Twitter, Ministry Of External Affairs Official Spokesperson Vikas Swarup wrote, “Berlin to Beijing, Paris to Jakarta! Glorious day kicks off #IDY2016 celebrations across the world!”

Several striking images of complex Yoga postures including Surya Namaskar, illuminated the UN Headquarters on this occasion. India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in association with UN Department of Public Information will commemorate the day at the world body headquarters today.

India’s Ambassador to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that this year’s celebration lays special emphasis on enhancing awareness that Yoga is a holistic approach and not just a physical activity.

UN General Assembly President Morgens Lykketoft, Under-Secretary General for Communications and Public Information Cristina Gallach and founder of Isha Foundation Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev will lead a simple Yoga practice at the UN Headquarters to mark the occasion.