Ambassador’s Speech at Pointe-Noire
on the occasion of 11th International Day of Yoga
(0900 hrs on 15 June 2024: Jaipur Sea Lounge Restaurant)
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• Mr. Blaise DJASSA, Congolese Foreign Ministry Representative
• Members of the Consular Corps in Brazzaville
• Hon Consul General of India Mr. P.S. Daswani and my colleague from the Embassy First Secretary Mr. Sanjeev Kumar
• Dear Yoga Enthusiast, Ladies and Gentlemen

Bonjour, Namaste, Good Morning!

         First of all, I must thank each and everyone of you for making it here early in the morning, that too on a weekend!

2. We are celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga on 21st June this year.  Indian Prime Minister Modi’s vision to promote Yoga has been warmly welcomed the world over. This day is celebrated to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga and to promote its practice worldwide.

3. Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, Yoga goes far beyond just physical movement. It is a universal science of inner balance and holistic well-being.  At a time when stress, lifestyle diseases, and mental health challenges are on the rise, Yoga offers a steady, time-tasted path that helps us find calm within ourselves and live more peacefully with those around us.  Yoga strengthens the body, calms the mind and fosters a heightened sense of awareness and responsibility in daily life. 

4. Furthermore, Yoga is a lo-impact exercise that can be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels without expensive equipment.  It is an affordable and accessible way to improve physical and mental health; and can be practiced anywhere and at any time.  You just need a Yoga Mat, small space and regular practice – initially under a trained Yoga Teacher and then you can do it by yourself.  By practicing Yoga regularly, we can improve our overall well-being and lead a happier and healthier life.  I encourage all of you to make it an essential part of your daily routine!

5. This year marks over a decade since the United Nations adopted India’s proposal to designate 21st June as the International Day of Yoga.  This 11th edition offers an opportunity to reflect on how Yoga has grown into a global force for well-being, touching people across age groups, geographies and walks of life.  It has also been a source of inner strength and a bridge of solidarity, especially during global crises such as COVID-19 pandemic. 

7. Let us pledge to make Yoga a part of our daily routine and to spread its message to others.  Let us unite in the spirit of yoga and promote its practice for the betterment of ourselves and the society at large.

6. I take this opportunity to THANK the Regal Group who partnered with the Indian Embassy in organising today’s event at this beautiful sea beach in Pointe-Noire in the backdrop of Jaipur Sea Lounge Restaurant.

8. Ladies and Gentlemen, with these words, I request you to join the energizing, and at the same time, a very relaxing Yoga Session. 

Thank You!