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Commemoration of 9th International Day of Yoga in Lao P.D.R. on 17th June 2023.
Posted on: June 19, 2023 | Back | PrintEmbassy of India
Vientiane
Vientiane, 17 June 2023
Media Release
Commemoration of 9th International Day of Yoga in Lao P.D.R.
The flagship event to mark 9th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was held with great enthusiasm in Vientiane today on the theme of “Yoga for Humanity”.
In the inspiring presence of sacred national monument That Luang, Yoga enthusiasts came together for the largest Yoga gathering in Vientiane so far, to know the benefits of Yoga and to follow a simple common Yoga protocol.
H.E. Dr. Kingmano Phommahaxay, Deputy Minister of Education and Sports, was the Chief Guest at this flagship event. H.E. Mr. Phouvong VONGKHAMSAO, Vice Mayor of Vientiane Capital, Ambassador Southam Sakonhninyom, President of Lao-India Friendship Association, senior government officials, diplomatic corps, media persons and public from all walks of life, including the Indian community, were present. Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Education & Sports; Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism; and the Authorities of the Vientiane Capital extended valuable support and collaboration to the event.
Benefits of Yoga for the health and well-being of individuals and communities are well known. It has become specially relevant in the aftermath of Covid19, with the need for physical and mental fitness and for boosting one’s natural immunity. Yoga is also a perfect way to tackle various lifestyle stresses and pressures. Yoga today has become a powerful unifying force with positive influence in the lives of millions across the world.
In the spirit of LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative for pursuing an environmental conscious lifestyle, a special feature of the event was its eco-friendliness, with no single-use plastics used.
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014 had adopted the resolution with a record 177 co-sponsoring nations to observe 21 June as the International Day of Yoga (IDY).
IDY is also being marked at historical UNESCO World Heritage site of Vat Phou on 21st June. In the run up to IDY, a number of Yoga demonstrations were organized across Vientiane as curtain raisers.
These events, seen across the globe, will also create added visibility and tourism potential for these national treasures of Laos.
The Embassy thanks the Art of Living Laos and all sponsors for the excellent support provided by them.
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