India’s cultural diplomacy gained momentum with the launch of Yoga Bandhan, a flagship global initiative under the Ministry of Ayush that gathered yoga ambassadors and wellness leaders from 15 countries at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga in New Delhi. As one of the 10 Signature Events leading up to the International Day of Yoga 2025, the event aimed to institutionalize international partnerships in yoga education, training, and cultural exchange.
The gathering was inaugurated by Ayush Secretary Rajesh Kotecha, who emphasized India’s leadership in global wellness. Citing National Sample Survey data, he noted that 95% of India’s population is aware of AYUSH systems, and 35% actively practice yoga. He projected that global participation in yoga-related events ahead of June 21 could reach 500,000, reflecting unprecedented interest in the discipline.
Director General of ICCR, Nandini Singla, commended the international delegates as “voices of peace and harmony,” highlighting their role in spreading yoga across borders. She advocated for short-term yoga certification courses tailored for visiting dignitaries.
Yoga Bandhan hosted studio heads, authors, academics, and practitioners from countries including Australia, China, South Africa, Argentina, and South Korea. The event included a cultural yoga fusion performance, panel discussions, and a tour of the MDNIY campus, fostering cross-cultural understanding and institutional dialogue.
Ayush officials highlighted infrastructure upgrades at India’s Yoga Certification Board to meet growing global demand for trained professionals, and extended an invitation for foreign partners to collaborate. The event also spotlighted ongoing IDY initiatives such as Harit Yoga and Yoga Connect, positioning India as the world’s central node in yoga governance and practice.
As the 2025 International Day of Yoga approaches, Yoga Bandhan marks a renewed push to use yoga as a bridge for global unity, health, and cooperation, in line with India’s vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the world is one family.
