Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi hailed yoga as a priceless gift from India to the world, emphasising its role in fostering a culture of health, harmony, and peace. He made the remarks at a state-level International Yoga Day celebration held at the Kalinga Stadium to commemorate International Yoga Day.
The Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha, organised a state-level yoga celebration at the Kalinga Stadium. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi was the chief guest on the occasion. He participated in the mass yoga practice and highlighted the significance of yoga in promoting physical and mental well-being.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from yoga enthusiasts, students, and citizens, who came together to practice yoga and celebrate the occasion.
On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through video conferencing, while Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi spoke at the state-level yoga celebration in Bhubaneswar.
The Chief Minister emphasised that yoga is not just a physical exercise or limited to a few asanas. He highlighted that yoga holds a much higher position than physical exercise, as it is a unique blend of physical, intellectual, mental, and spiritual aspects. He also mentioned that yoga, born out of Indian culture and yogic tradition, is not confined to any particular religion. Instead, it awakens the body, soul, and thought process, making it universally acceptable and appreciated by people of all castes, creeds, and religions.
Chief Minister further said yoga is an integral part of Indian culture and tradition, which was previously confined within the country. However, after assuming office in May 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took steps to introduce yoga to the world within just six months. As a result, on December 11, 2014, the United Nations passed a resolution to celebrate June 21 as International Yoga Day every year. Today, people from almost all countries around the world celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and interest.
“The theme for this year’s International Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, which highlights the profound connection between individual well-being and the health of the planet. It emphasises how the ancient practice of yoga not only nurtures the body and mind but also promotes a harmonious lifestyle that respects nature and all living beings. This theme encourages individuals to adopt a holistic approach to health, recognising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being. By embracing yoga, individuals can contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable world”, said CM Majhi.
The Chief Minister highlighted that in Odisha, they are making yoga accessible to everyone. They are organising workshops and awareness programmes through schools, colleges, hostels, and sports centres. Steps are also being taken to incorporate yoga into school programs and public health initiatives. The goal is to build a healthy, self-reliant, efficient, and empowered Odisha.
“Today, yoga sessions are being held in all districts of Odisha, with thousands of people coming together to practice yoga, whether in urban or rural areas. This mass participation reflects the growing awareness and aspirations of the people towards a healthy lifestyle”, maintained the CM.
The state-level yoga event at Kalinga Stadium saw participation from around 15,000 people, including ministers, MPs, MLAs, and senior officials, who practised yoga together. The event also featured a traditional Gotipua dance performance by the Culture Department.
