Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — “Through the practice of yoga, we cultivate a spirit of unity — unity of body, mind, and soul, unity with our families, our societies, with all people, birds, animals, and trees we share this beautiful planet with… this is yoga.” — Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Malli Mastan Babu, born in a humble village in Andhra Pradesh, rose from modest beginnings to become one of India’s most inspiring mountaineers.

Alongside his academic achievements in engineering and management, he discovered a passion for mountaineering, preparing for his expeditions with rigorous physical and mental training. Yoga played a crucial role in his journey — helping him strengthen his body, maintain focus, and stay calm under extreme conditions.

His discipline was extraordinary — from cooking his own meals to meticulously planning every stage of his climbs. In just 172 days, Babu conquered the highest peaks on all seven continents, becoming the first Indian and South Asian to do so. His story is a powerful reminder that inner harmony and determination can lead to the loftiest of summits. His life continues to inspire strength, clarity, and the pursuit of holistic well-being.

India, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, has long stood as a symbol of wisdom, health, and harmony.

From the invention of zero to advancements in astronomy, surgery, and philosophy, India has enriched humanity for centuries. At the heart of its worldview lies the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the whole world is one family.” This ancient wisdom embodies the belief that true progress lies in the collective upliftment of all humankind.

Among India’s greatest contributions to the world is yoga — not merely a physical practice but a way of life that nurtures clarity of mind, emotional resilience, and spiritual peace. Its relevance has never been greater, as the world seeks a shared vision of health and harmony between people and the planet.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, recognizing yoga’s holistic approach to health and balanced living. This marked a global shift toward preventive healthcare rooted in ancient Indian wisdom.

Derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “to unite,” yoga harmonizes the body, mind, and spirit. Codified by Maharishi Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, it comprises eight limbs that guide individuals toward ethical living, self-discipline, and inner peace.

In today’s fast-paced world of stress, digital overload, and emotional exhaustion, yoga has emerged as a powerful tool for self-renewal.

Daily practice improves posture, strengthens immunity, and fosters emotional balance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, yoga proved essential for mental and physical resilience. Recognizing its value, the World Health Organization incorporated yoga into its Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030.

Since its inception in 2015, the International Day of Yoga has become one of the world’s largest wellness movements. In 2024, participation surged, with around 245.3 million people joining. Outreach was extended through community radio stations, schools, Anganwadi centers, and government institutions. Social media campaigns reached more than 34.8 million people, while Indian embassies and institutions engaged over 545,000 individuals worldwide. These milestones reaffirm yoga’s role as a global bridge to health and unity.

Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Government of India has taken significant steps to institutionalize yoga across all domains.

The Ministry of AYUSH has spearheaded international campaigns promoting yoga, allocating ₹15.30 crore to support research in educational, wellness, and medical institutions. The Yoga Certification Board has set global standards and formalized recognition for trained yoga professionals.

India shares yoga with the world in many forms — through AYUSH departments in foreign universities, workshops hosted by Indian embassies, and digital initiatives. Apps like Y-Break and DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing) make it easier to integrate yoga into daily life, especially in workplaces and schools.

Yoga also plays a central role in supporting students’ mental health. Under the Manodarpan initiative, yoga is paired with psychological counseling to help students build resilience. Since 2020, yoga classes have been broadcast on 12 educational television channels for students in grades 1 to 12.

The growing popularity of yoga is generating new jobs and business opportunities.

More people are traveling to destinations like Rishikesh, Kashi, and Kerala to study yoga. Airports, hotels, and wellness centers now feature yoga rooms. The market for yoga apparel, accessories, trainers, and corporate wellness programs is expanding. Yoga is becoming a vital part of everyday life and work.

Rooted in ancient wisdom, yoga brings balance in an ever-changing world. It strengthens, clarifies, and connects — within ourselves and with one another.

As a symbol of India’s soft power, yoga transcends borders and cultures, promoting peace, well-being, and unity. It reflects India’s enduring capacity to inspire global harmony through knowledge, tradition, and timeless values.