New Delhi/ Bhopal June 19, 2026

As the world prepares to mark International Day of Yoga on June 21, the Indian Embassy in the United States organised a community yoga session at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, on Friday. India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, participated alongside a large number of yoga enthusiasts and members of the Indian diaspora. Participants performed various yoga postures and breathing exercises against the backdrop of one of America's most recognised national landmarks, highlighting the growing global appeal of the ancient Indian practice.

The event was held ahead of the 11th International Day of Yoga, which will be observed worldwide on June 21. Since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, the annual observance has evolved into a global movement, with yoga events now taking place across cities, universities, parks and public institutions in dozens of countries.

According to reports the Washington programme was part of a wider series of outreach activities being organised by Indian missions around the world in the run-up to Yoga Day. Similar events have been planned in major cities across North America, Europe, Asia and Africa to promote awareness about yoga's role in physical fitness, mental well-being and healthy living.

Yoga, which originated in India thousands of years ago, has steadily gained popularity in the United States over the past two decades. Millions of Americans now practise yoga regularly for flexibility, stress management and overall wellness. Public yoga sessions at prominent locations have also become a regular feature of India-US cultural engagement.

The choice of the Lincoln Memorial added symbolic significance to the event. The monument, dedicated to former US President Abraham Lincoln, is one of Washington's most visited public spaces and has often served as a venue for civic and cultural gatherings.

International Day of Yoga will be marked on June 21 with large-scale events across the world. In the United States, Indian diplomatic missions and community organisations are expected to host more public sessions over the weekend, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds through the shared practice of yoga.