Modi leads Yoga Day celebrations in India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today led thousands of people in marking the fourth edition of International Yoga Day celebrations by performing breathing exercises and 'asanas.'

Clad in a white T-shirt and a pair of white trousers, Modi joined yoga performance on the lawns of the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun in Uttarakhand state early in the morning, reports our New Delhi correspondent.

He also led the chanting of the first round of 'Om'.

Indian Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and several of Modi's cabinet colleagues also  took part in yoga events across the country, reports the correspondent.

Addressing the yoga enthusiasts, Modi said "yoga has emerged as the biggest unifying force in the world. Yoga binds the humanity, world, family and individuals. 

"The world has embraced Yoga and glimpses of this can be seen in the manner in which International Day of Yoga has been marked every year. In fact, Yoga Day has become one of the biggest mass movements in the quest for good health and well-being," Modi said.

The United Nations General Assembly, on a request by Modi, declared in December 2014 that June 21 be observed as International Day of Yoga every year.

Meanwhile, commemorating International Day of Yoga 2018, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka today organised an event attended by around 10,000 people practicing the ancient Indian discipline at Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka, according to a press release.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader graced the event as the Chief Guest and Biren Sikder, State Minister for Youth & Sports was the Guest of Honour, the press release added.

Indian High Commissioner Harsh Vardhan Shringla delivered the welcome remarks.

Sports associations, Yoga associations and Institutes, students from various schools, colleges and universities in Dhaka and outside Dhaka, Bangladesh Scouts participated in the celebrations.