Daijiworld Media Network - Bratislava
Bratislava, Jun 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he and Slovak President Peter Pellegrini were delighted to witness a special Yoga demonstration by Slovak schoolchildren, highlighting the growing global popularity of the ancient Indian practice ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21.
Sharing the experience on X, PM Modi said it was encouraging to see young people embracing Yoga and using it as a means to promote health and well-being.
“President Pellegrini and I were delighted to witness a special Yoga demonstration by schoolchildren from Slovakia. As the world counts down to International Yoga Day, it is heartening to see the youth embracing Yoga. It is also wonderful to see Yoga continuing to bring people together in the shared pursuit of well-being,” the Prime Minister wrote.
A Yoga session was also organised at the Presidential Palace in Slovakia on Monday, where Slovak students performed various Yoga exercises in the presence of both leaders during PM Modi’s official visit.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the event reflected the expanding cultural ties between India and Slovakia and showcased Yoga’s universal appeal as a practice that promotes physical fitness, mental balance and healthy living.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with President Peter Pellegrini, observed a special Yoga demonstration by Slovak schoolchildren. Both leaders acknowledged the growing cultural engagement between India and Slovakia and recognised Yoga as a powerful medium for promoting physical well-being, mental harmony and a healthy lifestyle,” the MEA said.
During his visit to Bratislava, PM Modi also met noted Slovak scholar Róbert Gáfrik, who has led efforts to translate the Upanishads into the Slovak language.
The Prime Minister praised Gáfrik’s dedication to Indian heritage and spirituality.
“In Bratislava yesterday evening, I met Dr. Róbert Gáfrik, who has spearheaded the effort to translate the Upanishads into Slovak. His passion for Indian history, culture and spirituality is truly commendable,” PM Modi said.
International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on June 21 to spread awareness about the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of Yoga.
The initiative was first proposed by Prime Minister Modi during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014. Following overwhelming international support, the United Nations officially declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014.
The date coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising harmony between human beings and nature.
Over the years, International Yoga Day has grown into a worldwide movement, with millions of people across different countries participating in Yoga sessions and wellness programmes aimed at promoting holistic health and overall well-being.