Speech of Ambassador of India to Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Rajesh Uike
on 12th International Day of Yoga
(Dushanbe, 21st June, 2026)
Hon’ble Ms. Rahimzoda Shabnam – First Deputy Chairperson of the Committee for Youth Affairs and Sports under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan,
Hon’ble Mr. Shokirzoda Muhammadtolib – Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Youth Affairs and Sports under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan,
Esteemed representatives from the Dushanbe City Administration,
Esteemed members of the Tajikistan-India Friendship Society,
Our Tajik friends present here today,
Members of the Indian diaspora, and Indian medical students,
Sportspersons, Yoga influencers, members of media, ladies, and gentlemen,
It gives me immense pleasure to welcome all of you to the celebration of the 12th International Day of Yoga here in Dushanbe.
At the outset, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our valued partners—the Committee for Youth Affairs and Sports under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Executive Authority of Dushanbe City—for their excellent cooperation and support in organizing today's event.
I am delighted to see such an impressive gathering this morning. The participation of more than 300 people reflects the growing popularity of yoga and the increasing awareness of healthy lifestyles among the people of Tajikistan.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This year, the International Day of Yoga is being celebrated worldwide under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
The theme is particularly relevant in today's world. As life expectancy continues to rise across the globe, the focus is no longer only on living longer, but on living healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. Healthy ageing means maintaining physical vitality, mental clarity, emotional balance, and social well-being throughout all stages of life.
Originating in India thousands of years ago, yoga is one of humanity's most enduring gifts for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is far more than a form of exercise. Yoga represents a comprehensive approach to life that promotes harmony between body and mind, individual and society, and humanity and nature.
Regular yoga practice helps improve flexibility, strength, balance, and posture. It supports cardiovascular health, enhances respiratory function, reduces stress, and contributes to better sleep. Scientific studies conducted around the world have demonstrated yoga's positive impact on mental health, helping practitioners manage anxiety, improve concentration, and cultivate emotional resilience.
Importantly, yoga is accessible to people of all ages. Whether young or old, beginner or experienced practitioner, everyone can benefit from incorporating yoga into their daily lives.
As we observe this year's theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” we are reminded that healthy ageing is not merely about preventing illness. It is about preserving dignity, independence, vitality, and quality of life. Yoga provides practical tools to help individuals remain active, engaged, and healthy throughout their lives.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today's celebration is the culmination of a successful Yoga Week organized by the Embassy of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Dushanbe.
Over the past week, free yoga sessions and outreach activities were conducted at various institutions and locations across the city. These events brought together students, educators, government officials, athletes, and members of the wider community. From educational institutions and sports facilities to public venues, hundreds of participants joined us in embracing the spirit of yoga and wellness.
The enthusiastic participation we witnessed throughout the week demonstrates the strong interest in yoga and healthy living among the people of Tajikistan. I would like to thank all participants, instructors, volunteers, and partner organizations who contributed to the success of these activities.
I would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that free yoga classes are conducted regularly at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre under the Embassy of India in Dushanbe. These classes are open to all and provide an excellent opportunity to learn and practice yoga under qualified instructors.
We warmly invite everyone to join these sessions and make yoga a part of their daily routine.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Since its establishment by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, following the initiative of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the International Day of Yoga has grown into a truly global movement. Every year, millions of people across continents come together to celebrate this ancient practice and its universal values.
Yoga transcends borders, languages, cultures, and religions. It speaks a universal language of health, harmony, and human well-being. In a world often marked by stress, uncertainty, and division, yoga reminds us of our shared humanity and our collective aspiration for peace and balance.
India is proud to see yoga embraced by people around the world as a force for positive change and a bridge connecting diverse communities.
The friendship between India and Tajikistan is rooted in centuries of cultural exchanges, mutual respect, and close people-to-people ties. Cultural cooperation remains an important pillar of our bilateral relationship, and yoga has become one of the many ways through which our peoples connect and learn from one another.
I am pleased that the celebration of the International Day of Yoga in Tajikistan has become a cherished annual tradition, bringing together people from all walks of life in the spirit of health, friendship, and unity.
I am also delighted that today's programme will feature a special musical performance by one of Tajikistan's most beloved artists, Ms. Noziya Karomatullo. Her participation adds a unique cultural dimension to our celebration and symbolizes the spirit of friendship, mutual appreciation, and cultural exchange that characterizes the relationship between India and Tajikistan.
Culture and wellness are both powerful forces that bring people together, and today's event beautifully reflects that shared aspiration for harmony, creativity, and human connection.
Before I conclude, I would like to thank all our partners, volunteers, instructors, media representatives, and participants whose dedication and enthusiasm have made today's event possible.
Let us use this occasion not only to practice yoga together but also to renew our commitment to healthier lifestyles, stronger communities, and a more harmonious future.
On behalf of the Embassy of India, I wish all of you good health, happiness, and success.
Thank you very much.
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