International Yoga Day, celebrated on June 21 every year, is a global event dedicated to the ancient practice of yoga. The United Nations General Assembly declared this day in December 2014, recognizing the universal appeal and numerous health benefits that yoga offers. The date of June 21 was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares special significance in many parts of the world.

The day aims to raise awareness worldwide about the many benefits of practicing yoga, a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. Yoga is more than just physical exercise; it has a meditative and spiritual core that has made it popular not only in the East but also in the Western world.

Each year, International Yoga Day is celebrated with a particular theme to focus on various aspects of yoga and health. For instance, the theme for 2021 was "Yoga for well-being," emphasizing yoga's significant role in psychological care and mental health in the pandemic context.

The event brings together millions of people worldwide, who participate in mass yoga sessions, online classes, workshops, and numerous other events to celebrate the day. Through this collective participation, International Yoga Day strives to underline the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the integral role that yoga can play in promoting holistic health and wellness.