By Sanjeev Kumar Pal
Consul (PIC)
Chicago: The Consulate General of India in Chicago celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY 2025) with a vibrant public event at Navy Pier on the morning of Saturday, June 21. Over 400 yoga enthusiasts gathered at Polk Bros Park to participate in the festivities, uniting in their appreciation for the ancient Indian discipline under clear skies and along the shores of Lake Michigan.
The event was inaugurated by Consul General Somnath Ghosh, who highlighted the universal relevance of yoga and this year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” He spoke of yoga not just as a form of physical exercise, but as a holistic and sustainable way of life that transcends cultural, religious, and geographic boundaries. Emphasizing its role in personal well-being and global ecological balance, he called yoga a timeless gift from India to the world.
A demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol followed, led by renowned instructors Ms. Anu Malhotra, Ms. Vimi Shukla, Ms. Parna Mazumdar, Ms. Pam Brockman, and Ms. Saba Haider. Participants of all ages and backgrounds practiced in unison on the park’s green lawns, turning the morning into a living tribute to peace, mindfulness, and community spirit.
The event received strong support from the State Bank of India, Chicago, and featured participation from a wide array of community organizations, including Art of Living – Chicago, Isha Foundation, Heartfulness, Brahma Kumaris, Sewa International USA, and many more.
Beyond Navy Pier, the Consulate extended its support to numerous IDY celebrations throughout its jurisdiction. Events were held across Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Iowa, with contributions from organizations such as the Indian Cultural Association of St. Louis, Chinmaya Mission Indiana, Sanskriti Pewaukee, and the Indo American Association of Iowa.
This wide-ranging celebration reaffirmed yoga’s deep-rooted presence in the region and its growing role as a bridge between cultures, communities, and nations.
