Inauguration of Photo Exhibition on Yoga

On the sidelines of 29th Session of UN Human Rights Council (HRC)

[1800 hrs; June 24, 2015]

Opening Remarks by PR

Excellencies and Distinguished guests,

At the outset, I would like to thank all of you for joining us todayat the inaugural function of the Photo Exhibition on Yoga on the sidelines of the 29th Session of the Human Rights Council.

I also wish to place on record our deep appreciation to His Excellency Mr.Joachim Rucker, President of the Human Rights Council and Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Germany, for inaugurating the Photo Exhibition on Yoga.

The adoption by the UN General Assembly last year of a resolution, co-sponsored by 177 countries, declaring June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, was a momentous moment.

We bring this Exhibition as part of India’s efforts to follow-up on observance of the International Day of Yoga on 21 June this year, which was held in the Palais des Nations and well attended by people from all walks of life in Geneva. The world celebrated Yoga Day with immense enthusiasm. Across the world, people joined in large numbers. This is a testimony to the wide recognition and popularity Yoga has in the World.

Hon’ble Prime Minister of India His Excellency NarendraModi on the International Yoga Day said that “The opportunity of stability of inner self comes through practice of Yoga when we attempt to explore our inner selfeveryday for a certain period time……. If a person is able to get rid of stress,society at large will be free of stress. A stress free society makes for a stress free human race; and if the human race is free of stress, this universe will certainly be a place to rejoice in a happy peaceful and harmonious environment”.

Excellencies and Distinguished guests,

There is an urgent need for individuals and populations to make healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health. We believe that wider awareness about the benefits of practicing yoga and its practice can contribute to the progressive realization of the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standards of physical and mental health. It would be beneficial for the overall health of the world population.

This Photo Exhibition on Yoga is one such effort to promote awareness on Yoga as a holistic approach to health and well-being.

I thank you all for taking your time to join us at this inaugural of the Photo Exhibition.

I would now request His Excellency Mr. Joachim Rucker, President of the Human Rights Council, to say a few words, after which we invite everyone to visit the Exhibits.

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