The celebration was part of the annual International Day of Yoga (IDY), which has been observed worldwide since June 21, 2015, after the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized the day in 2014. This year’s event was a testament to yoga’s global reach and its ability to bring people together in the pursuit of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

The day began with opening addresses from key dignitaries, including the Ambassador of India to Germany, Harish Parvathaneni, Dresden's Lord Mayor Dirk Hilbert, and Ms. Ines Fröhlich, State Secretary in the Saxon State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Labour and Transport. Their speeches highlighted the deepening ties between India and Germany and the growing popularity of yoga across Europe. Attendees also watched video messages from India’s Prime Minister and the Minister President of the Free State of Saxony, further underscoring the significance of the event.

Following the speeches, participants took part in a one-hour yoga session led by experienced instructors from Art of Living, Isha Foundation, and Golden Yoga (Dresden). The session, based on the Common Yoga Protocol, included a series of asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathwork), and meditation. The exercises were tailored to be accessible to all, ensuring that even beginners could fully engage in the experience.

The event was not just about yoga; it was a celebration of Indian culture and wellness. The crowd was treated to a performance by singer-songwriter and social media sensation Cass Mae, whose music added a vibrant energy to the gathering. Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy a variety of vegetarian and vegan Indian delicacies, which were a hit among the participants.

To encourage participation, organizers provided free yoga mats, water bottles, goodie bags, and T-shirts to early registrants, with complimentary water and tea available for everyone. The thoughtful arrangements ensured that the event was both enjoyable and comfortable for all involved.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni expressed his delight at the growing interest in yoga within Germany. "It was truly heartening to see so many people come together to celebrate International Day of Yoga. The increasing recognition of yoga’s transformative impact on health and lifestyle in Germany is a testament to its universal appeal. This event has further strengthened the bonds between India and Germany, particularly within the Free State of Saxony, and we look forward to more such collaborations in the future."

Ms. Trisha Sakhlecha, Director of The Tagore Centre, also shared her thoughts on the day’s events. "We take great pride in celebrating the International Day of Yoga around the world. This year’s gathering, set against the stunning backdrop of the Frauenkirche, was our largest yet, with over 1,500 participants. It was an inspiring sight to see so many people practicing yoga together in what was the largest open-air yoga class ever held in Germany."

Dresden's Lord Mayor, Dirk Hilbert, echoed these sentiments, expressing his pleasure at hosting the event. "We were honored to support the Embassy of India in bringing International Yoga Day to our city. The strong turnout and enthusiasm of the participants highlighted Dresden's openness and interest in cultural exchange. This event has not only promoted yoga but also strengthened the ties between our communities."

The event was made possible with the support of various local partners, including GWT - Society for Knowledge and Technology Transfer, DMG, Hello Dresden & Dresden Information, Palais Sommer, Bombay Mirchi, Taste of India, Indian Association Dresden, and Vrindavan e.V.

As the sun set over Neumarkt, the participants left with a sense of unity and well-being, embodying the core objectives of practicing yoga. The International Day of Yoga 2024 was more than just an event; it was a celebration of health, harmony, and cultural connection.

• - https://indianembassyberlin.gov.in/PressRelease?id=MzI4