Yoga for all: Nairobi gears up for June 21 celebration

The countdown has begun for the 12th International Day of Yoga, with just 17 days left before the global wellness celebration takes place at the Oshwal Centre Grounds, Ring Road, Westlands.

Organised by the High Commission of India, Nairobi in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and the Ministry of AYUSH, the event will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:00 AM.

The annual observance, first declared by the United Nations in 2014, has grown into a global movement promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through yoga practice.

Nairobi’s edition is expected to attract hundreds of participants, reflecting the city’s growing interest in holistic wellness and cultural exchange.

To encourage participation, organisers have announced that free yoga T-shirts and mats will be provided to registered attendees.

“Registration is mandatory, with details accessible via the event’s QR code,” the poster noted.

Yoga’s global recognition was cemented in 2014 when the United Nations General Assembly, following a resolution introduced by India and co-sponsored by 175 member states, declared June 21 the International Day of Yoga.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described yoga as “an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition” that embodies the unity of mind and body.

Since then, the High Commission of India in Nairobi has led efforts to expand yoga practice across Kenya. Outreach programmes have reached at least 15 counties, including Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Nyeri, introducing more than 20,000 Kenyans to the practice.

The flagship International Day of Yoga event in Nairobi has previously attracted over 3,000 participants, with similar sessions also held at the United Nations Office in Nairobi and other institutions.

Officials say participation has steadily increased, with many Kenyans reporting improvements in fitness, stress management, and overall well-being.

NP Singgh, Second Secretary for Education, Yoga and Culture at the High Commission, described the initiative as “a long-term effort to encourage healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of yoga’s benefits.”