Press Release Press Release

Celebration of 9th International Day of Yoga in Bhutan

Embassy of India
Thimphu

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Celebration of 9th International Day of Yoga in Bhutan

The Embassy of India, Thimphu, in partnership with Friends of Yoga, celebrated the 9th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on the theme ‘Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ on 18 June 2023 at the iconic Clock Tower Square located in the heart of Thimphu.

The event was attended by Guests of Honour Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji, Chairperson of the National Council H.E. Sangay Dorji, and Opposition Leader H.E. Dorji Wangdi. A large number of people from different walks of life including the Royal Government, parliamentarians, diplomatic corps, desuups (national volunteers), officers of IMTRAT and Project Dantak, Indian diaspora, yoga enthusiasts and media participated in the celebrations.

Welcoming the participants, the Ambassador of India to Bhutan Shri Sudhakar Dalela spoke about the numerous benefits of yoga in maintaining physical, mental and spiritual well-being and for attaining inner peace. Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Bhutan Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji congratulated India for its leadership in bringing the practice of yoga to the world for “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, adding that yoga contributes to a happy and peaceful society.

The Common Yoga Protocol was conducted by Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh, Yoga Teacher at the Nehru-Wangchuck Cultural Centre (NWCC) of the Indian Embassy, along with Bhutanese yoga instructors and NWCC students.

Ambassador Dalela distributed prizes to winners of the yoga photography contest organized by the Embassy.

In the run-up to IDY 2023, the Embassy had organized several curtain raiser events during the month of June 2023 in association with Druk School, Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School, Draktsho Vocational Training Centre for Special Children and Youth, Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies (CBS), De-suung Skilling Programme (DSP), Central Monastic Body, and Royal Thimphu College. 

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Thimphu
18 June 2023