International Yoga Day 2025 theme: Why is it celebrated on June 21? Know history, significance and more

International Yoga Day 2025 theme this year: Yoga Day is marked annually on June 21. Find out what the theme is for 2025 and the significance of this day.

International Yoga Day 2025: Yoga is a timeless gift from India’s ancient heritage to the world. It nurtures both the body and the mind, offering a path to physical vitality and inner peace. Every year on June 21, the world comes together to celebrate International Yoga Day, recognising the profound impact of this holistic practice on global well-being. Here’s a look at why it matters and how it continues to inspire millions across the globe.

International Yoga Day 2025: Every year, on June 21, the world marks International Yoga Day to honour the practice of yoga and promote its benefits around the globe.(REUTERS)

International Yoga Day 2025: What is the theme of Yoga Day 2025?

In 2025, the theme for International Yoga Day is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” 2025 is a significant milestone as it marks the 11th anniversary of this global celebration.

Additionally, this year’s celebration features 10 signature events, including the flagship event, 'Yoga Sangam', showcasing mass yoga demonstrations at 1,00,000 locations across India. The other nine events are Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Park, Yoga Samavesh, Yoga Prabhava, Yoga Connect, Harit Yoga, Yoga Unplugged, Yoga Mahakumbh, and Samyoga.

International Yoga Day 2025 history and significance: Why is it celebrated on June 21?

June 21 was declared International Yoga Day by the United Nations General Assembly after a push by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. The UN passed a resolution on December 11, 2014, during the 69th session of the General Assembly.

Speaking at the session, PM Modi had said, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action … a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and nature.”

At the grand event held in New Delhi on June 21, 2015, the first International Yoga Day achieved two Guinness World records: largest yoga session, with 35,985 participants, and for the most nationalities (84) in one session. 

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practising yoga. Yoga is the integration of mind and body, thinking and action - a holistic approach that is beneficial to our health and well-being.