23 Jun 2026

In a world that moves faster every day, where technology connects but often leaves people overwhelmed, Yoga gives an opportunity to reconnect and rediscover balance amidst the pressures of modern life.

Those were the words of the Indian High Commissioner to Botswana, Bharath Kumar-Kuthati, as Botswana joined millions of people around the world in commemorating the 12th International Day of Yoga, with emphasis on yoga’s role as a unifying force for humanity and a pathway to healthier and more balanced living.

Addressing participants gathered on a chilly Sunday morning in Gaborone, Kumar-Kuthati thanked attendees for their dedication to health, wellness and inner harmony despite the cold weather.

Kumar-Kuthati noted that the International Day of Yoga had evolved into a global celebration transcending national boundaries and cultures.

“This day is not a celebration of India alone, It is a celebration of humanity, a celebration of our shared aspiration for a healthier body, a calmer mind and a more peaceful world,” he said, adding that Yoga benefits, belonged to all humanity.

“India may be the birthplace of Yoga, but humanity is its home,” he said, linking the philosophy to India’s ancient principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which promotes the belief that the world is one family.

Kumar-Kuthati said Yoga welcomed people from all walks of life regardless of nationality, language, faith or social status, making it a truly universal practice.

He observed that as the day unfolded across different time zones, millions of people worldwide were participating in yoga activities in a remarkable display of global solidarity.

In Botswana, he said, celebrations were not confined to Gaborone alone but were also taking place in Lobatse, Mahalapye, Palapye, Francistown and Serowe, reflecting the growing popularity of Yoga across the country.

Describing Yoga as more than a physical exercise, Kumar-Kuthati referred to it as a timeless science of holistic living that nurtures harmony between the body, mind and spirit.

He said the practice provided an effective response to many of the challenges associated with modern lifestyles, helping individuals achieve greater balance and well-being.

Highlighting on the global theme: Yoga for Healthy Aging, he said it focused on maintaining physical strength, mental resilience and emotional balance throughout all stages of life.

“Yoga is not merely about adding years to life but about adding life to those years, it offers us the wisdom and discipline to age with strength, balance, dignity and vitality,” he said.

He encouraged participants to embrace Yoga beyond the annual celebration and integrate its principles into their daily lives.

Sharing similar sentiments, the United Nations Resident Coordinator to Botswana, Wenyan Yang, said the celebration served to raise awareness about the many benefits of practising Yoga and making healthier lifestyle choices.

She said Yoga encouraged physical activity while promoting balance, strength, flexibility and mental well-being, contributing significantly to both physical and emotional health.

The celebration featured guided Yoga sessions and wellness activities, bringing together participants from different backgrounds in a shared commitment to healthy living, mindfulness and community well-being. ENDS