A vibrant gathering of approximately 200 yoga enthusiasts took place at the renowned Grand Pacific Hotel 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 in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), saw a diverse group of participants come together for a shared appreciation of yoga.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad served as the chief guest, emphasizing the critical role yoga plays in achieving harmony among body, mind, and spirit in today’s fast-paced, stressful environment. He drew attention to the theme for this year’s observance, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” as unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This theme reflects India’s commitment to promoting holistic well-being through yoga on a global scale, with Mr. Modi stating, “We wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.”
Mr. Prasad highlighted the simplicity and inclusivity of yoga, stressing its potential in enhancing mental resilience, promoting preventive health, and encouraging sustainable living. He recognized the connection between yoga and nature, underlining its significance in fostering environmental stewardship, particularly aligned with the Pacific values.
Acknowledging the contributions of the Indo-Fijian community for introducing yoga to Fiji, Mr. Prasad described yoga as a cultural bridge that connects Fiji and India while symbolizing shared global values such as peace and unity. He expressed gratitude to the High Commission of India in Fiji for their active role in promoting yoga and raising awareness about its benefits nationwide.
Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta delivered a heartfelt welcome, thanking attendees for their commitment to yoga, which serves as a testament to the strong ties between India and Fiji. He spoke on yoga’s transformative power, which transcends personal health by also addressing global challenges, including mental health, climate change, and social discord. Mr. Mehta commended Fiji for its growing acceptance of yoga within schools and communities, mentioning the newly inaugurated Yoga Centre in Seaqaqa.
The IDY celebration attracted senior dignitaries, diplomatic corps members, government officials, representatives from the Indian diaspora, and leaders from the business community, all coming together to honor the essence of yoga. In the days leading up to this major event, the SVCC conducted pre-IDY activities across eight schools and two diaspora organizations, facilitating a total of 40 yoga sessions to promote engagement and awareness.
While the main celebration occurred in Suva, the spirit of IDY 2025 resonated throughout Fiji, with additional events taking place in Nadi, Labasa, Lautoka, and Rakiraki. The celebrations extended beyond Fiji, with IDY commemorations organized in Tarawa, Kiribati, and Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
This year’s International Day of Yoga was a resounding success that reinforced yoga’s potential to unite communities, promote peace, and foster a sustainable future, echoing the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family. The enthusiasm and participation displayed at the event inspire hope for well-being and connection through yoga in the years to come.
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