"Yoga has become global brand": Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu

"With the vision of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yoga has become truly a global brand. India's ancient tradition has transitioned into wellness movement across the globe," Bittu posted on X.

On the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, he explained the significance of yoga and said that it connects health with 'Mother Earth'.

Speaking to reporters after partaking in the Yoga Day celebrations at Sukhna Lake here, Bittu said that Yoga is crucial for people's mental and physical well-being. He talked about the relationship between Yoga, health and the earth, stating that it was important to keep the earth healthy in order to lead a healthy lifestyle.

"Yoga is very important for our mental and physical well-being. It brings a lot of freshness to our lives. It connects our health with Mother Earth since it feeds us and provides us with grains. If the Earth is not healthy, we will also remain unhealthy. People are performing Yoga globally to lead a healthy lifestyle. The government has taken many steps to promote Yoga," Bittu told reporters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations, hailing yoga as a gift "beyond age" that transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony."

The event took place against the scenic backdrop of the Visakhapatnam coastline, with Indian Navy ships stationed near the shore, adding to the grandeur of the celebrations.

The Prime Minister praised the efforts of the Andhra Pradesh government and extended his appreciation to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan for hosting the event in Visakhapatnam.

He lauded their leadership as "inspiring" and described the state's initiative to promote yoga as "commendable."

Over three lakh individuals joined him for a mass yoga session in the coastal city, reinforcing this year's message that 'yoga belongs to everyone' and brings the world together. The Prime Minister recalled India's initiative at the United Nations in 2014 to declare June 21 as International Yoga Day, a move that received wide global support in record time.

The Prime Minister also shared glimpses from the event held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, saying the day highlighted how yoga 'unites' the world.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Yoga unites the world! Glad to see immense enthusiasm all across the planet for International Day of Yoga."

"I took part in a Yoga Day programme in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. People from all walks of life also joined. Here are some glimpses," the post reads.

Meawhile, renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik created a striking sand sculpture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing Ustrasana (Camel Pose) at Puri Beach.

Below the sculpture, the theme for this year, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health", was written. Pattnaik's sand art highlighted the significance of yoga, promoting awareness about its benefits for mental peace and well-being. His creations are typically accompanied by vibrant colors and intricate designs. (ANI)