From Raj Bhavan to remote valleys, Arunachal celebrates Yoga Day

Itanagar, Jun 21 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh joined the nation in celebrating International Yoga Day on Saturday with a series of events across the state, led by Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik and Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who underscored the importance of yoga for physical and mental well-being.

Governor Parnaik participated in the yoga session at Raj Bhavan here.

Emphasising the day's theme 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health', he said yoga has evolved into a global movement that transcends cultural, religious, and national boundaries.

"It has shown us how inner peace can foster outer peace, and how a calm mind leads to a healthier life," Parnaik said, calling yoga a timeless gift from India's ancient wisdom that promotes harmony of body, mind, and spirit.

He expressed hope that the day would inspire people to embrace yoga as a daily practice, fostering inner harmony and a deeper sense of responsibility towards nature.

"Let us make yoga a part of our daily lives for a healthier present and a brighter, more balanced future," the governor said.

Khandu, who attended a yoga event in the state capital, described yoga as a symbol of the union of body, mind, and consciousness.

"This year's theme reminds us to embrace wellness not just for ourselves, but for the planet too. Let's celebrate healthy living, every day," he said in a social media post.

Extending his wishes, Khandu added, "May this year inspire us to embrace the ancient wisdom of yoga, for inner peace, physical well-being, and collective harmony." Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein led the celebrations at the Kongmu Kham Golden Pagoda in Namsai district.

Reflecting on his personal journey with yoga, he shared, "Yoga is not just a routine; it's a way of aligning the mind, body, and soul. I have been practising yoga for several years now, and it continues to ground me amidst the demands of public life." Mein encouraged the youth to take up yoga, highlighting its power to bring clarity, resilience, and calmness.

"Just a few minutes a day can lead to a lifetime of balance and inner strength," he said.

Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, led the celebrations at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya at Anini in Dibang Valley district.

He pointed to the growing global embrace of yoga, especially during challenging times, as a source of both physical and mental strength.

Anini MLA Mopi Mihu also took part and stressed the role of yoga in enhancing mental clarity and emotional balance. He urged participants to dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to the practice and to inspire others to join.

Meanwhile, state BJP president Kaling Moyong, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tashing, and party workers observed the day with a yoga event at the party office in Itanagar.

The United Nations General Assembly officially declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, acknowledging yoga’s universal appeal and holistic benefits. PTI UPL UPL ACD