In a vibrant display of unity and wellness, Times Square transformed into a serene yoga arena as the Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with the Times Square Alliance, celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 20, 2025. Known as Solstice at Times Square, the day-long event welcomed around 10,000 yoga enthusiasts, representing diverse cultures and communities.
From sunrise to sunset, the heart of New York City pulsed with the rhythm of seven yoga sessions, each drawing large crowds eager to embrace the ancient Indian practice. The iconic venue, usually buzzing with traffic and screens, took on a calm, reflective energy as mats lined the streets and instructors led the crowd through synchronized flows.
The Consul General of India addressed the gathering with an uplifting message on yoga’s role in improving not only physical strength and mental clarity, but also fostering a deeper harmony with nature. He emphasized how yoga’s growing popularity across the US reflects a global shift toward mindful living.
Adding star power to the occasion, celebrated actor Anupam Kher graced the event with a heartfelt message. “From the stillness of a single breath rises the strength to heal the whole world,” he said, capturing the spirit of yoga’s power to transform both individuals and society.
The 2025 theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” highlights the interconnectedness of human and planetary well-being—a message that echoed strongly in this urban yoga sanctuary. As the world faces growing health and environmental challenges, this year’s theme encourages using yoga as a bridge toward collective healing and consciousness.
This celebration marks more than just a single day of activity. The Indian Consulate has been spearheading a month-long series of yoga events across US states under its jurisdiction—including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Ohio. These community events have received widespread participation, reinforcing yoga’s universal appeal and impact.
Since the United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2015—based on India’s proposal—the event has grown into a global movement. Times Square’s celebration this year was not only a nod to ancient wisdom but also a bold statement of modern unity through mindfulness.
