A vibrant gathering of approximately 200 yoga enthusiasts took place at the renowned Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) in Suva to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2025. The event, organized by the High Commission of India in Suva along with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), showcased the enduring connection between India and Fiji through the shared practice of yoga.
Among the attendees was former deputy prime minister and finance minister Biman Prasad, who served as the chief guest for the occasion. The International Day of Yoga was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014 at the behest of India, and this year’s theme, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” This theme reflects a vision of global well-being and the holistic benefits that yoga can offer.
In his speech, Mr. Prasad emphasized yoga’s significance as a universal tool for achieving harmony among mind, body, and spirit in today’s fast-paced world. He highlighted yoga’s accessibility and inclusivity, noting its potential in building mental resilience and promoting preventive health strategies along with sustainable living practices. He aligned his remarks with this year’s theme by discussing yoga’s ability to strengthen an individual’s connection to nature, which echoes the region’s values of environmental stewardship.
Mr. Prasad also acknowledged the contributions of the Indo-Fijian community in introducing yoga to Fiji, viewing it as a cultural bridge between the two nations encompassing shared ideals of peace, unity, and inner strength. Along with recognizing the role of the High Commission of India for promoting yoga across Fiji, he voiced appreciation for their efforts to spread awareness of its numerous benefits.
India’s High Commissioner Suneet Mehta further emphasized the unity and transformative potential of yoga, addressing global issues such as mental health and climate change. He celebrated Fiji’s increasing adoption of yoga within schools and communities, as well as the opening of a new Yoga Centre in Seaqaqa.
The event not only marked a celebration of yoga but served as a reminder of its potential to foster unity and encouragement for holistic well-being, underpinned by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—”the world is one family.” The presence of dignitaries, government officials, and representatives from the Indian diaspora illustrated the robust ties between India and Fiji.
Leading up to the main event, the SVCC conducted a series of pre-IDY activities across eight schools and two diaspora organizations, facilitating a total of 40 yoga sessions. While the main celebration took place in Suva, the High Commission ensured that the spirit of IDY 2025 echoed throughout the region by organizing additional events in Nadi, Labasa, Lautoka, and Rakiraki. Furthermore, commemorative events in Tarawa, Kiribati, and Nuku’alofa, Tonga expanded the reach of this global celebration.
In all, the International Day of Yoga 2025 not only attracted a significant turnout but also reinforced the idea that through the practice of yoga, individuals and communities can work towards a healthier, more connected world. This event serves as a hopeful reminder of the peaceful connections and shared aspirations that can be cultivated through yoga.
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