International Yoga Day

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice which originated in India.

In his UN address, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi suggested June 21, as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares a special significance in many parts of the world.

High Commission of India S.L. Verma, representing the High Commission of India in Port Moresby gave the keynote speech where he expounded on the history of International Day of Yoga and its resolution proposed by India was endorsed by 177 member states.

The themed walk “Peace and Harmony” is part of the two-day health and fitness activities lined up in its honour. NCD Governor Powes Parkop with UNDP’s deputy resident representative, Edward Vrkic and many committed participants arrived at Murray Barracks at 4am to begin the work to Era Kone.

Among the testimonies of Yoga having a positive impact on those facing various challenges in life is PNG Kumuls star, Stargroth Amean stating that Yoga played a huge part in his success on and off-field.

The large group came together to practice their poses at the High Commission of India in celebration of International Yoga Day.

The mass yoga class saw people from different backgrounds and all levels of experience roll out their mats together.

This is the second global celebration of yoga, following lobbying by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United Nations in 2014.

"We moved a resolution in the UN that was accepted by 177 countries," Indian High Commissioner Navdeep Singh Suri said.