From iconic city centres to international peacekeeping camps, diplomats and the Indian diaspora united across continents to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, under the global theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’.

In London, India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, led vibrant celebrations at The Strand, joined by yoga enthusiasts, friends of India and a strong turnout from the Indian community. Doraiswami also read a special message from King Charles III, who commended yoga’s growing impact in the UK and highlighted its role in promoting well-being and unity.
 

In the United States, the Indian Consulate in New York held a dynamic yoga session at Times Square, in collaboration with @TimesSquareNYC. Another well-attended event was held in Westchester, in partnership with the Town of Greenburgh and Indian cultural associations. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, a large crowd gathered at the Lincoln Memorial, where Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra hailed yoga as a celebration of India’s civilisational heritage and a gift to the world.

In New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar joined global diplomats for a morning yoga session at Nehru Park, blending India’s soft power with personal wellness. Known for his daily routine of yoga, squash and walks, Jaishankar’s presence added a personal touch to the diplomatic gathering.
 

Notably, in Mongolia, the Indian contingent led the International Yoga Day celebrations at Khaan Quest, a multinational military exercise site. The event symbolised yoga’s reach even in defence diplomacy and cross-border peace initiatives.