The Development Authority (DDA) on Wednesday celebrated the 9th International Day of Yoga at its sports complexes and parks, promoting the manifold benefits of this ancient practice. The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and Chairman of DDA VK Saxena led a captivating yoga session at Baansera, a scenic location nestled along the banks of the Yamuna River.
Joining him were Subhasish Panda, Vice Chairman of DDA, and OP Sharma, Authority Member and MLA of Vishwas Nagar, adding to the event's grandeur. Baansera, sprawling across 37 acres, is Delhi's first Bamboo Theme Park, serving as a perfect backdrop for the occasion.
The festivities commenced with a recorded address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, setting the tone for the International Yoga Day celebrations. This year's theme, “Yoga For Vasudaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasized the unity of humanity and our collective responsibility towards the planet. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014, responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal during his speech on September 27, 2014
DDA's commitment to spreading awareness about yoga extended beyond Baansera. The organization organized Yoga Day events at 15 sports complexes across Delhi, including prominent venues such as Siri Fort Sports Complex, Saket Sports Complex, Netaji Sports Complex, Vasant Kunj Sports Complex, and more.
These engaging activities witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 15,000 individuals, showcasing the growing popularity of yoga in the city. Following the Yoga Day celebration at Baansera, the Lieutenant Governor expressed his appreciation for the remarkable development of the newly created park in a short period.
Saxena emphasised the importance of green spaces and urged authorities to focus on the cleanliness and maintenance of the surroundings. In addition to the sports complexes, the International Day of Yoga was commemorated at prominent locations such as Coronation Park in Burari, SwarnJayanti Park in Rohini, and CBD Ground in Karkardooma. These venues collectively attracted over 6,500 participants, highlighting the widespread enthusiasm for yoga across Delhi. Prominent Members of Parliament also actively participated in the Yoga Day celebrations. Ramesh Bidhuri, MP from South Delhi, engaged in yoga activities at Vasant Kunj Sports Complex, while Dr Harsh Vardhan, MP from Chandni Chowk, joined the event at Major Dhyan Chand Sports Complex. Hans Raj Hans, MP from North West Delhi, graced the occasion at SwarnJayanti Park Rohini, and Vijender Gupta, Authority Member and MLA of Rohini, actively participated in the Yoga event at Rohini Sports Complex.
DDA's annual celebration of the International Day of Yoga demonstrates its commitment to promoting overall health, wellness, and happiness among individuals, communities, and organizations. By organizing public yoga sessions, workshops, and meditation gatherings led by expert trainers, DDA aims to foster a sense of unity, inspire a “Fit India” movement, and encourage the adoption of yoga as an essential tool for well-being.
