Why the United Nations chose the summer solstice for International Day of Yoga

Science · Published 20 October 2026 · Updated 21 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 2014, the United Nations unanimously established an annual day to celebrate yoga, a practice originating in ancient India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed June 21, the year's longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, for its global significance. Today, this event serves as a massive, worldwide wellness initiative.

The International Day of Yoga emerged from a 2014 proposal by India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, during his United Nations General Assembly address. The resolution achieved unprecedented support, with 177 nations co-sponsoring the initiative, the highest number for any such UN resolution. It was officially adopted without a vote, leading to the inaugural celebration on June 21, 2015. This date was selected because it marks the summer solstice, which is the year's peak of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere and holds cultural weight across many regions. In Indian tradition, this time signifies the start of Dakshinayana and is linked in Hindu mythology to Shiva, the first yogi, who began teaching mankind on this day.

The first global event in 2015 set records, with 35,985 participants performing 21 postures over 35 minutes at Rajpath in New Delhi. This gathering included dignitaries from 84 countries, marking the largest yoga class ever recorded. To commemorate the occasion, the Reserve Bank of India released a 10-rupee coin, and the United Nations Postal Administration issued a sheet of 10 stamps featuring various asanas. The Ministry of AYUSH coordinated the arrangements in India, reflecting the government's desire to establish yoga as India's cultural property.

The initiative has faced diverse reactions. While proponents like Ravi Shankar argued that state patronage was essential for yoga's survival, others raised concerns. Some critics in India viewed the promotion as a partisan effort, leading to the removal of specific elements like sun salutations and the chanting of 'Om' to accommodate objections. Religious perspectives also varied; while some Christian groups and conservative Hindus agreed that yoga is inherently a spiritual practice, scholars like Ann Gleig argue that Western adaptations of yoga have largely stripped away religious content. Despite these debates, the day continues to be observed annually, highlighting yoga's evolution from an ancient practice to a globally recognized wellness phenomenon.

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