President Droupadi Murmu Leads International Yoga Day 2025 Celebrations in Dehradun

The International Day of Yoga 2025 was marked with vibrant celebrations across India, and leading the national observance was President Droupadi Murmu in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” set a profound tone for the global movement, highlighting the interconnectedness of personal well-being and environmental health.

The President’s visit to Dehradun was part of a three-day official tour to Uttarakhand from June 19 to June 21, culminating in the grand yoga event on June 21 at the Uttarakhand State Police Line Maidan.

A Symbolic Venue: Dehradun in the Lap of Nature

Choosing Dehradun, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, brought additional significance to the celebrations. Known for its serene landscapes and fresh mountain air, the city reflects the essence of yoga — peace, balance, and harmony with nature. Hosting the President’s yoga session here sent a strong message about the need to practice yoga in natural environments that support holistic health.

Three Days of Engagement and Wellness Advocacy

President Murmu’s visit wasn’t limited to the yoga event. On June 19, she inaugurated several key facilities at Rashtrapati Niketan, including an amphitheater, staff quarters, stables, and barracks. On June 20, she opened the Rashtrapati Niketan to the public, launched a visitor facilitation centre, a cafeteria, and a souvenir shop, and also inaugurated the Rashtrapati Tapovan — a retreat space that aligns with the contemplative values of yoga.

Additionally, she visited the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities and released a special commemorative stamp celebrating the 125th anniversary of Raj Bhavan in Nainital.

These initiatives underline a broader theme: accessibility, empowerment, and sustainable wellness for all.

The Global Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health

Adopted by the United Nations and championed by Indian leadership, the 2025 theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” focuses on the integrated nature of well-being. Yoga is not just a physical activity — it’s a lifestyle that emphasizes mindful living, sustainable choices, and spiritual balance.

This theme also reflects the ‘One Health’ approach — a philosophy that acknowledges the health of humans, animals, and the planet as interdependent. As climate change, pollution, and mental stress rise globally, yoga becomes not only a personal wellness tool but also a universal solution for harmony and sustainability.

Mass Yoga Demonstration: Unity in Breath

The highlight of the President’s visit was the mass yoga demonstration on June 21. Thousands of yoga enthusiasts, students, fitness professionals, and citizens joined the President in performing asanas and breathing exercises. The event demonstrated how yoga transcends cultural, geographical, and generational boundaries.

Visuals from the celebration showed participants practicing Surya Namaskar, Pranayama, and meditation in sync with instructors, with the Himalayan breeze and chants enhancing the experience.

Why This Matters

India, being the birthplace of yoga, has taken a leadership role in global wellness through the annual observance of International Yoga Day, first proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and adopted by the UN the same year.

This year’s Presidential participation in Dehradun amplified the message of commitment toward holistic health, environmental consciousness, and community-driven wellness. It’s not just about stretching and breathing — it's about living consciously.

How You Can Be Part of Yoga Day

Even if you missed the main event, you can still participate in the Yoga Day spirit by:

Practicing yoga daily — even 20 minutes can help.
Learning about the philosophy behind yoga, not just the physical poses.
Supporting eco-friendly lifestyles that align with the theme.
Participating in local yoga events or organizing sessions in your community.

Remember, yoga is for everyone — it’s not about perfection, but progress.

Conclusion

The International Yoga Day 2025 celebration led by President Droupadi Murmu in Dehradun wasn’t just an event — it was a statement. A statement that India stands at the heart of the global wellness movement, and that yoga is more relevant today than ever before.

With the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” this year’s celebration invites each of us to align our body, mind, and spirit not only for personal gain but for planetary well-being.