Bhubaneswar: The majestic Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is set to be the breathtaking backdrop for a grand celebration of the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2025. This iconic monument, steeped in ancient wisdom and dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, provides a profoundly symbolic venue for an event promoting holistic well-being.
As part of the nationwide celebrations spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, the Sun Temple will witness a mass yoga demonstration following the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP). Enthusiastic participants, including yoga practitioners, government officials, and locals, are expected to gather in the early morning to partake in this global movement for health and harmony.
The selection of Konark’s Sun Temple underscores its significance not just as an architectural marvel but also as a site deeply connected to the veneration of the sun, a central element in many yogic practices like Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation). The temple’s intricate carvings and its design as a colossal chariot pulled by seven horses symbolize the dynamism of life and the source of all energy – the sun. This resonance with the principles of yoga, which emphasize aligning oneself with natural rhythms and energies, makes Konark an ideal location.
While the main national event for IDY 2025 will be held in Visakhapatnam, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Culture has chosen 100 tourist-based iconic destinations and 50 cultural sites across the country for parallel celebrations. Konark’s inclusion among these prominent sites highlights Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution to the global outreach of yoga.
This event at the Sun Temple is expected to draw significant attention, showcasing India’s ancient practice of yoga against the backdrop of one of its most magnificent historical treasures, further amplifying the message of “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” – the theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga. Local authorities and various organizations have made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth and memorable celebration, inviting everyone to embrace the transformative power of yoga.