The global journey of Yoga: From India to the world
"Yoga is a light that, once kindled, never fades. The deeper your practice, the brighter it shines."
B.K.S. Iyengar's (renowned Indian teacher of yoga) words were true then—and they continue to resonate just as powerfully today.
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Once the practice of Yoga was confined to the ashrams of ancient India. But today, this ancient practice has become global. From Seoul to New York, millions now roll out their yoga mats every day; to keep physically as well as mentally fit. People also practice yoga for emotional balance and spiritual growth. This global journey of yoga is as much a story of cultural diplomacy and exchange as it is one of wellness and well-being.
Indian roots, Global Appeal
Yoga is a practice that originated nearly 5,000 years ago in Rishikesh, also known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Despite its spiritual origins, yoga appealed to people from across the globe.
International Yoga Day
: 21st June
This sentiment led to the declaration of International Yoga Day, which is celebrated every year on June 21st. The global response was overwhelming—more than 170 countries co-sponsored the UN resolution, including countries with no historic ties to Indian traditions.
Since then, Yoga Day has become a worldwide celebration.
Let's quickly have a look at the global journey of Yoga:
South Korea: Adopted Yoga creatively
South Korea has adopted Yoga creatively. According to Hwang Il Yong, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre India, 'The people of Korea recognise the mental and physical benefits of yoga, embracing it not only as physical exercise but as a holistic practice for a balanced life. Major universities have also incorporated yoga classes into their general education and empowerment programmes.'
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In Korea, yoga has taken on imaginative forms, merging with pop culture and local traditions. 'Various fusion yoga styles are being explored, including programmes that combine modern exercise methods with K-pop, as well as paddleboard yoga practiced on the water,' Hwang adds.
This year, the 11th International Yoga Day in Gwanghwamun Square will carry the theme 'Discover Your AURA,' featuring a dynamic programme that includes performances combining yoga with traditional Korean dance and Priyavinyasa with Gayageum (a Korean zither-like instrument).
'These programmes showcase the rich cultural exchange between India and Korea and underscore the growing popularity of yoga in the country,' Hwang mentioned.
Goa, India: Hub for holistic wellness tourism
Back home in India, states like Goa are considered as global wellness centres. Kedar Naik, Director of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, underscores this brilliant transformation. 'Goa is steadily emerging as a hub for holistic wellness tourism, drawing yoga and Ayurveda enthusiasts from across the globe.
With its serene natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing network of wellness centres, Goa offers the perfect setting for those seeking balance, rejuvenation, and inner peace.
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He further explains, 'These initiatives are part of Goa Tourism's vision to promote the state as a destination that goes beyond conventional travel, embracing wellness, sustainability, and conscious living.'
Yoga travel: A rising global trend
Off late, yoga and holistic wellness have become one of the prime motivations for global travel.
From Goan beaches to Himalayan retreats in Uttarakhand, people are travelling far and wide in search of inner peace. This growing trend marks a shift from traditional sightseeing to transformative experiences.
E
mma Collins, a marketing executive from North Carolina said, 'After years of corporate burnout, I flew to Goa for a month-long yoga retreat and it wasn't just a vacation—it was a turning point in my life.'
Travellers are choosing destinations that offer immersive wellness experiences, combining yoga and Ayurvedic treatments. Wellness resorts and eco-retreats now cater to this demand, offering programs that go beyond physical fitness to nurture mental as well as emotional well-being.
Sam Jones, an entrepreneur from Edinburgh, says, 'I used to travel for business or leisure. Now, I travel to reconnect—with myself.
Practicing yoga in Bali's rice fields helped me realign my priorities.'
Whether it's a sunrise yoga session in Thailand or sound healing in Costa Rica, the rise of Yoga travel shows a global desire to slow down and seek a more conscious, balanced way of living.
The road ahead
As yoga continues to travel across the globe, the challenge lies in maintaining its real ancient values while adapting to a more modern lifestyle. The world is all set to celebrate International Yoga Day while striving to live in balance.
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