Shimla- From the icy Siachen Glacier in Ladakh to the land of Yogis in the Himalaya and turbulent calm Hind MahaSagar, people from around the world, including Indian Himalayan states joined together to practice yoga and pranayama on International Yoga Day today.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a tour to the USA, participated in a yoga session at the sprawling premises of the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh joined armed personnel on INS Vikrant and performed yoga in the tranquil surroundings of the Hind Mahasagar.
In his address to the world from New York, which has gone viral on social media, Modi said the United Nations serves as a meeting point for humanity in the vibrant city of New York.
He recalled about proposing celebration of International Day of Yoga on 21st June almost a decade ago in the same place.
Modi expressed his delight in witnessing the overwhelming support from the entire world for this idea.
Modi also mentioned his recent initiative to build a memorial for UN peacekeepers, which received global backing.
Promoting his Millet Mission, Modi emphasized the health benefits of millets, which are superfoods and also eco-friendly.
Speaking about yoga, the Prime Minister described it as an ancient and dynamic tradition, adaptable to people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels.
He highlighted that yoga transcends cultural and religious boundaries and can be practiced anywhere.
Modi emphasized that yoga is not merely an exercise on a mat but a way of life, promoting holistic health and well-being.
"It instills mindfulness in thoughts and actions and encourages living in harmony with oneself, others, and nature", he said.
The spotlight on Yoga Day was on the Indian soldiers stationed at the Siachen Glacier, the world's highest battlefield, bordering Pakistan and China.
Clad in snow-white uniforms, these soldiers braved sub-zero temperatures to perform yoga, showcasing the ancient spirit of yoga that transcends physical limits and borders.
Ladakhi innovator Sonam Wangchuk, who is in the forth day of his Climate Fast in support of the ongoing talks of Ladakhi leaders with New Delhi's Central government, practiced Yoga and preached LIFE, his Simply Live lifestyle to reverse the carbon emissions to save the Mountains and Glaciers in Himalaya. 
In a display of unity and well-being, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh practiced yoga with the armed forces and Indian Coast Guard onboard India's indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.
The event witnessed the presence of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, his wife, and other high-ranking officials.
Against the backdrop of a serene blue sky and a gentle breeze, the deck of INS Vikrant provided a setting for celebrating the ancient Indian practice, which is gaining global recognition for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
In the holy city of Haridwar, Uttarakhand, a large yoga session was led by Baba Ram Dev, the founder of Patanjali Yog Peeth and a renowned yoga guru.
Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, and foreigners joined hands to practice yoga on the banks of the sacred Ganga river, reflecting unity and inclusiveness.
In Himachal Pradesh, people observed Yoga Day in their homes, schools, and various campuses across the state, although the government did not organize any open-air sessions. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla led a yoga session at Raj Bhavan Shimla, organized by the Department of AYUSH and the Yoga Department of Himachal Pradesh University. Shukla highlighted the stress-reducing and health-promoting benefits of yoga and pranayama, emphasizing the importance of a healthy mind and body.
International Yoga Day witnessed enthusiastic participation across the globe, reinforcing the universal appeal and significance of yoga as a path to well-being and unity.
