In a heartwarming celebration of health and harmony, Bhubaneswar came alive with the spirit of Yoga as over 6,000 enthusiasts gathered at Kalinga Stadium for the launch of the ‘Harit Yoga’ initiative. Spearheaded by Union Minister of State for Ayush (I/C), Shri Prataprao Jadhav, this event marks a beautiful convergence of personal well-being and environmental responsibility as part of the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025.
In a symbolic gesture of nurturing both inner and outer balance, the minister, along with several dignitaries, planted medicinal plants and distributed over 5,000 saplings to the participants. The air was filled with energy and positivity as the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) was practiced en masse, reflecting not just the discipline of Yoga but also its unifying spirit.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Jadhav reminded everyone of how Yoga has blossomed into a global movement over the past decade, bringing people across borders together in pursuit of holistic health. Quoting the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s recent “Mann ki Baat” address, he highlighted this year’s IDY theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” — and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future.
The launch of Harit Yoga reflects a deeply human message: our health is intimately tied to the health of our planet. By encouraging every citizen to plant a tree, the initiative echoes the spirit of ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, inviting people to care for the Earth as they would for their own mother.
The programme also featured live demonstrations of the Common Yoga Protocol by experts from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga. Under the clear skies of Kalinga Stadium, thousands moved in synchrony, embracing the ancient practice as a pathway to resilience, balance, and peace.
The event was further uplifted by the presence of Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Ms. Pravati Parida, who called on citizens to make Yoga a daily habit and draw strength from their cultural heritage. She expressed heartfelt thanks to the Government of India for giving Odisha the honour of hosting this leg of the IDY countdown. Member of Parliament Shri Sambit Patra also underlined Yoga’s global resonance, celebrating India’s leadership in making 21st June the world’s day of wellness
As India gears up for the 11th edition of the International Day of Yoga, this year’s celebration is set to be the most expansive and inclusive yet. With ten signature events — including Yoga Sangama, Yoga Maha Kumbh, and Harit Yoga — the campaign embraces people of all ages, abilities, and walks of life. From eco-conscious initiatives to virtual summits and outreach to marginalised communities, the government’s vision for IDY 2025 is deeply rooted in the values of unity, inclusivity, and care.
The Bhubaneswar event not only reaffirmed Yoga’s transformative power but also touched hearts with its message: taking care of ourselves and the planet can be one and the same act. Harit Yoga stands as a shining example of how small, mindful actions—planting a tree, performing a pose, breathing deeply—can lead us toward a more compassionate and connected world.
