The practice of yoga guides us towards non-violence, compassion, and peace-values that are essential for sustainable development and the preservation of our planet. Embracing yoga to realize the vision of ‘One Earth, One Health’ is the need of the hour,” said Thaawarchand Gehlot, Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka.
He was addressing a large gathering at the 11th International Yoga Day 2025 celebration organized by the Department of AYUSH in front of the Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru.
Calling yoga an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition, the Governor said, Yoga is a bridge between body and soul, thought and action, discipline and fulfillment. It fosters self-restraint, balance, and sensitivity towards nature. Rooted in India’s cultural ethos, yoga has served humanity’s health and well-being for millennia.
Highlighting yoga’s unifying spirit, the Governor remarked, “Yoga harmonizes the body, mind, and emotions. It is a timeless contribution by our sages and seers and stands today as a beacon of hope for global well-being. The world has acknowledged and embraced its transformative power.”
As the world greets the sunrise on the longest day of the year, June 21, we awaken the inner light within us through yoga. It helps us transition from stress to balance, anxiety to peace, and disorder to holistic health, he added.
The theme for this year’s International Yoga Day, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms and the environment. “Yoga is the most effective and simplest path to realize this interconnectedness,” said the Governor.
Pointing to current global challenges such as climate change, mental stress, lifestyle diseases, and ecological imbalance, the Governor said that yoga not only strengthens individual health but also deepens our relationship with nature. “One Health” represents the integrated well-being of humans, animals, plants, and the planet.
Concluding his address, the Governor urged citizens: Let us incorporate yoga into our daily lives and collectively strive to build a healthier, more peaceful, and balanced world.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Legislative Council Chairman Shri Basavaraj S. Horatti, Health Minister Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, actors Anirudh and Kishan, actress Saniya Iyer, MLC T.A. Saravana, and others.
