Speech by Ambassador Y. K. Sailas Thangal on the Occasion of the IDY 2026

(Astana Arena, Astana: 21 June 2026)

Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan Hon’ble Maulen Ashimbayev, Chief Guest of the event, Ambassador Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa, CICA Secretary General Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, Deputy Akim of Nura District Ms. Aliya Absemetova, Olympic Champion Mr Ilya Ilyin, my colleagues Ambassadors and members from Diplomatic Corps and international organizations,

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, All protocol observed.

Namaste and a very warm welcome to all of you on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga 2026.

It is a great honour for the Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre Astana to celebrate this special day here at the magnificent Astana Arena with the great support of the Astana Akimat. I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Hon’ble Chief guest for sparing his time to join us despite his heavy schedules. Thanks to Akim of Astana for graciously allowing Embassy of India to use this wonderful venue. My heartfelt thanks also go to all the officials of the Elorda Sport Department and the Astana Arena management and staff for their outstanding cooperation and support in organizing this grand event.

I would also like to convey our deep gratitude to the Yoga Associations, the vibrant yoga family of Astana, and all our sponsors whose commitment and generosity have made today's celebration possible.

India and Kazakhstan share close and enduring cultural ties built on friendship, mutual respect, and people-to-people connections. Yoga, one of India's most treasured ancient traditions, has found a special place in the hearts of the people of Kazakhstan. Over the years, yoga has become immensely popular across the country, truly finding a second home here in Kazakhstan.

As we all know, yoga is much more than a physical exercise but a way of life that promotes harmony between mind, body, and spirit. In today's fast-paced world, yoga helps us maintain physical health, mental resilience, emotional balance, and productivity in our daily lives. It teaches us mindfulness, compassion, and self-discipline, while helping us cultivate peace within ourselves, our families, and our communities.

The theme of this year's International Day of Yoga "Yoga for Healthy Ageing" reminds us of the importance of adopting sustainable and healthy lifestyles. Yoga offers a simple yet powerful means to achieve this goal and contributes to the overall well-being of society.

As we celebrate together today, let us reaffirm our commitment to promote this timeless ancient art and share its benefits with future generations. I am confident that through our collective efforts, the bonds of friendship between India and Kazakhstan will continue to grow stronger, and yoga will continue to inspire healthier, happier, and more harmonious communities.

I wish you all a joyful and enriching International Day of Yoga.

Thank you.

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