Medan Becomes Center of 12th International Day of Yoga Celebration as Over 500 Participants Fill Tourism Polytechnic Campus

MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The Consulate General of India in Medan, in collaboration with the Medan Tourism Polytechnic, successfully hosted the 12th edition of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event was held at the campus of the Tourism Polytechnic in Medan and brought together more than 500 participants from diverse social backgrounds to celebrate the spirit of unity, health, and cultural exchange between India and Indonesia.

The celebration was not merely an annual ceremonial observance, but also highlighted the growing importance of yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle in North Sumatra. The strong participation of students, lecturers, government representatives, yoga practitioners, and the general public clearly demonstrated that yoga is increasingly being accepted and continues to develop dynamically in the region.

Organized through a joint collaboration between the Consulate General of India in Medan and the Medan Tourism Polytechnic, the event also reinforced the long-standing cultural ties between the two countries. At the same time, it served as a platform for social interaction and strengthened people-to-people connections in a tangible way.

Yoga as a Bridge for Health and Global Harmony

The 12th International Day of Yoga was opened with a series of remarks from distinguished guests, all emphasizing the importance of yoga as a holistic practice. Speakers underlined that yoga is not only a form of physical exercise but also a means of achieving balance between body, mind, and spirit.

They further highlighted the universal appeal of yoga, which transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. In today's fast-paced and often stressful world, yoga offers a path toward inner peace, mental strength, and a healthier lifestyle.

In his remarks, Dr. Ngatemin, Director of the Medan Tourism Polytechnic, expressed appreciation for the friendly relations between India and Indonesia, as well as support for promoting yoga among young people.

"Yoga transcends geographical and cultural boundaries and serves as a universal language of health that connects people around the world," said Dr. Ngatemin.

This statement underscores yoga's role as an effective instrument of cultural diplomacy in the era of globalization.

Cross-Border Participation Strengthens Yoga Cooperation

The event was attended by several key figures, including Tengku Chairuniza, Head of the Youth and Sports Office, representing the Mayor of Medan, and Datuk Iskandar Muda, representing the Chairman of the Medan City Council, along with academics and members of the yoga community. Their presence reflected strong support for the development of health-oriented sports in the region.

The main highlight of the event was a mass yoga session led by experienced instructors from India and Indonesia. Participants enthusiastically followed the "Common Yoga Protocol," showcasing the synergy between the two countries in promoting a holistic understanding of health.

Indian yoga instructor Rohit Pramar jointly led the training session alongside Indonesian instructors. This collaboration reflected the spirit of cultural exchange that defines the annual International Day of Yoga. Participants directly experienced the benefits of breathing techniques, meditation, and structured physical movements.

Yoga Competition Highlights Talent and Discipline

One of the most notable segments of the program was the yoga competition, which showcased participants' skills, discipline, and dedication. Contestants demonstrated complex yoga postures with high precision before the judging panel.

The competition served not only as a platform for individual achievement but also encouraged participants to integrate yoga into their daily lives. Winners were later awarded directly by the Consul General of India in Medan.

This further reinforced the idea that yoga is not merely a competitive sport, but rather a personal journey toward inner balance and holistic well-being.

Yoga Increasingly Rooted in North Sumatra

The participation of more than 500 people reflects the growing interest in yoga among the people of North Sumatra. Yoga is increasingly no longer perceived as a foreign practice, but rather as part of a modern and healthy lifestyle.

Consul General of India in Medan, Ravi Shanker Goel, reiterated that yoga is not only a physical exercise but a comprehensive approach to harmonizing body and mind. He encouraged the public to integrate yoga into their daily routines in order to lead healthier and more sustainable lives.

He also emphasized that this year's International Day of Yoga theme is: "Yoga is very good for the health of the elderly."

He further explained that individuals who regularly practice yoga are not only able to maintain their health but are also better equipped to contribute to society. Yoga, he added, can also help reduce stress and anxiety in the community.

Sustainable Cultural Diplomacy

Since its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 at the initiative of India, the International Day of Yoga has evolved into a global movement celebrated in numerous countries. Millions of new practitioners join the practice each year.

This year's celebration in Medan once again reaffirmed the strong cultural ties between India and Indonesia. The collaboration not only strengthens diplomatic relations but also fosters deeper intercultural understanding at the community level.

The Consulate General of India in Medan expressed its gratitude to all parties involved, including the Medan Tourism Polytechnic, local authorities, yoga instructors, volunteers, and the yoga community.

Looking ahead, the Consulate General aims to continue promoting the values of yoga-balance, self-awareness, and unity-to build a healthier and more harmonious society. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala