A Heartwarming Display of Unity: NDRF Dog Joins Yoga Session Ahead of International Yoga Day
The global celebration of yoga began in 2014, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. Following this, the UN officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, with support from 175 member countries.
In a delightful demonstration of harmony and focus, a specially trained dog from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) took part in a unique yoga session alongside NDRF personnel at the 13th Battalion campus in Sui, Udhampur — just one day before the 11th International Yoga Day.
More than 50 NDRF team members had gathered to practice yoga asanas together, but all eyes were drawn to one very special participant. The adopted dog, with its incredible calm and poise, followed the yoga routines flawlessly — even mimicking classic poses like “downward dog” with surprising accuracy. Its graceful balancing and gentle stretches captivated everyone present, making the four-legged yogi the true star of the session.
This memorable event was part of the nationwide buildup to International Yoga Day, celebrated annually on June 21. This particular date was chosen because it coincides with the summer solstice — the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere — a time that signifies vitality, new beginnings, and alignment with the rhythms of nature. These qualities mirror yoga’s core principles of balance and holistic well-being.
The global celebration of yoga began in 2014, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. Following this, the UN officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, with support from 175 member countries.
This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underlines the deep connections between human well-being and the health of the planet. Across India, ten distinctive initiatives — including Yoga Sangam, Yoga Bandhan, Harit Yoga, Yoga Samavesh, Yoga Mahakumbh, and Yoga Unplugged — aim to highlight yoga’s holistic benefits for the body, mind, and environment. Together, these programs encourage a united, health-conscious way of living for all.
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