Andhra Pradesh: A Grand Showcase of Yoga

Andhra Pradesh took center stage for the 2025 International Day of Yoga, hosting the flagship event in Visakhapatnam, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The main event unfolded along a 26-kilometer stretch from RK Beach to Bhogapuram, with over 3 lakh participants performing the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) as part of the ‘Yoga Sangam’ initiative.

The scenic coastline, with Indian Navy ships stationed offshore, added grandeur to the celebrations. Andhra Pradesh secured two Guinness World Records and 21 World Book of Records for yoga-related feats, including the largest single yoga gathering.

A major highlight was the participation of 25,000 tribal students at Andhra University, who performed 108 Surya Namaskars in 108 minutes. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu personally oversaw the preparations and expressed pride in the state’s achievement. Over 50 lakh yoga certificates were distributed to participants. To ensure smooth execution, Visakhapatnam declared school holidays on June 20–21 and imposed a coastal fishing ban for security.

Celebrations Across Other Indian States

Yoga fever swept the nation with more than 2 crore people participating at over 1 lakh locations under the ‘Yoga Sangam’ initiative. Here’s how other states marked the day:

• Delhi: Yoga sessions were held at 109 locations. A special session on boats along the Yamuna River was led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, emphasizing wellness and environmental care.
• Uttar Pradesh: CM Yogi Adityanath led from Gorakhpur. Governor Anandiben Patel joined in at Raj Bhavan, and political leaders across parties urged daily yoga practice.
• Jammu and Kashmir: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh practiced yoga with the Army in Udhampur. BSF personnel held sessions near the Line of Control, and Lal Chowk saw a symbolic gathering.
• Gujarat: Vadnagar set a Guinness World Record with 2,121 people holding the Bhujangasana for over two minutes. Union Minister Amit Shah joined celebrations in Ahmedabad.
• Tamil Nadu: Governor R.N. Ravi practiced with 10,000 students in Madurai, reinforcing yoga’s power to unify body, mind, and spirit.
• Kerala: Actor Mohanlal joined a yoga event in Kochi, while the Indian Coast Guard co-hosted a community session in Fort Kochi.
• Maharashtra: Amruta Fadnavis and actor Nushrratt Bharuccha led sessions in Mumbai, joined by veteran actor Dharmendra.
• Haryana: CM Nayab Singh Saini announced a five-minute daily yoga break in offices and a uniform curriculum for universities. A large gathering took place at Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra with Ramdev.
• Manipur: NCC cadets performed yoga at the Marjing Polo Statue in Imphal East, blending cultural tradition with wellness.
• Puducherry: A mass yoga session took place near the Gandhi Statue on Beach Road, showcasing inclusive participation.

A Global Movement

The International Day of Yoga 2025 wasn’t limited to India. Indian embassies and cultural centers worldwide conducted yoga events. A major demonstration was held at the UN Headquarters in New York. With participation from 175 countries, this year’s celebrations reflected yoga’s growing global impact.

The Significance of Yoga

Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word “yuj” meaning “to unite,” symbolizes the connection between mind, body, and environment. The 2025 theme focused on fostering physical well-being and ecological awareness. PM Modi highlighted in his address that yoga connects humanity, transcending barriers and promoting peace. Research from AIIMS and digital outreach have amplified yoga’s reach and credibility globally.

A Call to Embrace Yoga Daily

Ten Signature Events like Yoga Bandhan, Harit Yoga, and Yoga Unplugged engaged youth, rural populations, and professionals alike. The Ministry of Ayush’s campaigns ensured widespread participation via Gram Panchayats, Anganwadis, and health centers. National leaders emphasized that yoga should become a way of life—not just a single-day activity—for mental clarity, spiritual growth, and physical fitness.

The 2025 International Day of Yoga was a resounding success, positioning Andhra Pradesh as the epicenter and reaffirming India’s leadership in promoting global wellness. Yoga continues to inspire millions, offering a timeless path to harmony and health.