By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The High Commission of India in Nigeria on Saturday commemorated the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at the Velodrome of the National Stadium, Abuja, with a call for Nigerians and the global community to embrace yoga as a pathway to healthy aging, wellness and inner peace.
Speaking at the event, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, G. Balasubramanian, said this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” underscores the importance of the ancient practice in helping people of all ages maintain optimal physical, mental and emotional health.
The celebration attracted senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the Indian community in Nigeria, students, sports enthusiasts and other stakeholders.
Among the dignitaries present were Ambassador Babagana Wakil, Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Muhammad Saidu Dahiru, Nigeria’s High Commissioner-Designate to India; Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Shehu Dikko; and the Commission’s Director-General, Dr. Bukola Olopade.
Addressing participants, Balasubramanian noted that yoga has evolved into a global movement for wellness, peace and unity, bringing together millions of people across different cultures and backgrounds.
He recalled that the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in December 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while yoga was later inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
Describing yoga as an invaluable gift from ancient India, the High Commissioner explained that the practice promotes harmony between the mind, body and soul, while fostering a balanced relationship between humanity and nature.
“In today’s fast-paced world, yoga provides a dedicated space to breathe deeply, reduce stress and cultivate mental clarity. Through stretching, breathing exercises, mindfulness and physical movements, yoga helps improve balance, flexibility, strength and mobility while supporting mental well-being,” he said.
Balasubramanian further described yoga as a “secret superpower” that builds strong bodies and helps individuals remain calm amid life’s challenges, adding that the practice transcends borders, languages and cultures.
According to him, yoga is more than physical exercise, as it enables practitioners to develop a sense of oneness with themselves, society and nature.
He also cited renowned yoga teacher B.K.S. Iyengar, who described yoga as a discipline that helps people maintain balance in daily life and perform their duties effectively.
The High Commissioner expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission, the management of the Velodrome, corporate sponsors including Indorama and African Industries Group, members of the Indian community and all participants for supporting the event.
He urged participants to continue practicing yoga beyond the annual celebration and to carry its values of harmony, tranquillity and well-being into their everyday lives.
