On the 21st of June PM Modi addresses the nation on the occasion of the National celebration of the 9th International Day of Yoga 2023. Due to his ongoing commitments in the United States, the Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes to the citizens through a video message. The National Celebration, led by Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar, took place in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of yoga on a global scale, emphasized unity, and shared his vision for a healthy and powerful society.
Unity through Yoga
The Prime Minister began by quoting the sages, stating, “What unites us is Yoga.” He expressed that the propagation of Yoga is an extension of the idea that the whole world is one family. Drawing attention to the G20 Summit’s theme, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ chaired by India this year, he emphasized that Yoga promotes the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family). The Prime Minister lauded the global participation in yoga celebrations, highlighting the theme of ‘Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which unites millions of people worldwide in practicing Yoga together.
Health and Strength through Yoga
Quoting Yoga scriptures, the Prime Minister emphasized that Yoga provides health, vigor, and strength. He highlighted the transformative power of Yoga, stating that regular practitioners have experienced its energy. Recognizing the importance of good health at both the individual and family levels, the Prime Minister stressed that Yoga contributes to creating a healthy and powerful society, where collective energy becomes a driving force. He acknowledged initiatives such as Swachh Bharat and Startup India, which have helped build a self-reliant nation and restore India’s cultural identity.
Yoga as a Unifying Force
The Prime Minister praised India’s culture, social structure, spirituality, and ideals, which have always nurtured traditions that unite and embrace diversity. He highlighted Yoga as a practice that strengthens these sentiments, expands inner vision, and connects individuals with a sense of unity among all living beings. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to overcome contradictions, blockages, and resistances through Yoga, envisioning India’s spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ (One India, Great India) as an example for the world.
Yoga and Action
The Prime Minister shared a Shloka (verse) on Yoga, emphasizing the importance of skillful action. He stated that in the era of Azadi Ka Amrit (the era of independence), perfection in Yoga is achieved when one is devoted to their duties. Through Yoga, individuals gain insight into selfless action and embark on a journey from Karma (action) to Karmayoga (selfless action). The Prime Minister expressed confidence that through Yoga, not only will health improve, but also these resolutions will be embraced. He concluded by stating that the physical strength and mental expansion achieved through Yoga will form the foundation of a developed India.
