His Worship Peter Alex Banda, Mayor of Lilongwe City Council, Distinguished Guest of Honour

Senior Government Officials,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Distinguished Guests,
Friends from the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Namaskar, and a very warm good evening to all of you.

It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you to this beautiful and meaningful gathering — the “Curtain Raiser for the International Day of Yoga 2026” here at the National War Memorial in Lilongwe.

I also take this opportunity to convey my sincere thanks and deep  gratitude to His Worship the Mayor, Mr. Peter Alex Banda, for gracing the occasion as our esteemed “Guest of Honour’’. Your presence reflects the strong friendship and growing partnership between India and Malawi, and also the shared commitment of our two nations towards health, harmony, and community well-being.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We  are gathered here today at the  iconic place which is  considered a national pride that honours courage, compassion and service to the nation. It would not have been the better place for us to launch our IDY 2026 celebrations from this landmark monument. Yoga, also teaches discipline, resilience, inner strength, and peace — values that unite humanity across borders and cultures.

The International Day of Yoga, observed every year on 21st June, has become a truly global movement. Since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, with the support of an overwhelming majority of member states, Yoga has inspired millions of people across continents. What began as an ancient Indian tradition has now become a universal language of wellness and harmony.

Today, Yoga is practiced in parks and schools, in offices and homes, by young and old alike — from New Delhi to New York, from  Lilongwe to Los Angels. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and universality. Yoga does not belong to any particular religion, region, or community. It belongs to the humanity and mankind.

It is generally a misnomer that yoga means physical stretching. Yoga is  more than physical exercise; it is a holistic way of life which  promotes balance between body, mind, and soul and balance  between individual and society, and between humanity and nature. In a world increasingly affected by stress, anxiety, conflict, and lifestyle diseases, Yoga offers something deeply valuable — stillness, clarity, and inner peace.

The world today faces many challenges where Rapid urbanisation, stressful working, demanding lifestyles, and mental health concerns are predominant. These things even make Yoga more important in our daily life to take care about our physical and emotional well-being. Yoga provides a pathway towards preventive healthcare, mindfulness, and sustainable living.

Friends,

India and Malawi share warm and historic ties based on mutual respect, friendship, and people-to-people connections. The Indian community in Malawi has contributed positively to the country’s economic and social development for generations, and cultural exchanges between our peoples continue to deepen our bonds.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Yoga is that it builds bridges between communities. Every year, we are delighted to see enthusiastic participation from Malawian friends, students, professionals, government officials, members of the security services, and the diplomatic community in Yoga events organised by the High Commission of India.

This year too, as we begin the journey towards International Day of Yoga 2026, we hope to make Yoga accessible to more people across Malawi. Through daily yoga sessions at the High Commission of India, outreach programmes, and public events, we seek to encourage healthy living and collective well-being.

I especially wish to encourage our youth to embrace Yoga. In today’s digital age, where attention is constantly divided and pressures are increasing, Yoga can help young people cultivate concentration, discipline, emotional resilience, and confidence. A healthy youth means a stronger and brighter future for every nation.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As India continues to work closely with African partners, including Malawi, we remain committed not only to development cooperation but also to human-centric initiatives that enrich lives. Yoga is one such gift — simple, accessible, affordable, and transformative.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Government of Malawi, the Lilongwe City Council, our partners, volunteers, Yoga practitioners, and all participants who have contributed to organising today’s event. Your support and enthusiasm are deeply appreciated.

Dear Friends,

As we prepare for the International Day of Yoga 2026, let us carry forward the spirit of Yoga beyond today’s programme. Let Yoga become not just an annual celebration, but a daily practice — a source of energy in our lives, compassion in our hearts, and peace in our societies.

May this Curtain Raiser inspire more people to discover the benefits of Yoga and to join us in celebrating a healthier, happier, and more harmonious world.

Before I conclude, allow me to share a timeless Sanskrit message:

“Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu”
— “May all beings everywhere be happy and free.”

With these words, I once again thank His Worship the Mayor, all distinguished guests, and each one of you for joining us this evening.

I look forward to welcoming all of you again on 21st June for the grand celebration of the International Day of Yoga 2026 at National Police Headquarters ground, Area-30.

Thank you very much.   Zikomo kwambiri.   Jai Hind.