More than 2,000 participants gathered at the iconic Amphitheatre of Carthage on Sunday to mark the 12th International Day of Yoga, transforming the UNESCO World Heritage Site into a sprawling hub of wellness, mindfulness and cross-cultural exchange.
The Embassy of India in Tunis organised the celebration under the global theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” underscoring the ancient practice’s growing relevance as populations worldwide face the challenges of rapidly ageing societies.
Diplomatic and Government Leaders Join Celebration
The event drew high-level participation, with H.E. Ms. Rana Taha, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tunisia, serving as Chief Guest, and H.E. Mr. Nizar Aousji, Regional Delegate of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Taha emphasised yoga’s capacity to foster peace, mindfulness and well-being, calling for greater unity and solidarity in a world marked by division. She noted that inner peace serves as an essential foundation for building a more harmonious global community.
Members of the diplomatic corps, parliamentarians, government officials, UN agency representatives, academics, media professionals, social media influencers and members of the Indian diaspora joined Tunisian yoga enthusiasts in the morning session.
A Message of Peace in Turbulent Times
H.E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, India’s Ambassador to Tunisia, reflected on yoga’s remarkable journey from one of India’s oldest philosophical traditions to a global movement embraced by millions.
“This year’s theme, ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing,’ reminds us of the practice’s vital role in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience and longevity,” Ambassador Khobragade said.
She stressed that yoga’s message has become particularly significant at a time when many regions face tension, conflict and war, offering a path toward inner peace and collective harmony.
The Ambassador recalled that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi first proposed the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, a resolution that garnered overwhelming international support, including from Tunisia.
Mass Yoga Session and Wellness Showcase
Participants enthusiastically performed postures, breathing exercises and meditation practices following the Common Yoga Protocol issued by India’s Ministry of Ayush. A dedicated Ayurveda and Wellness Lounge was also established at the venue, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s holistic health traditions.
Strong Bilateral Support
Ambassador Khobragade expressed sincere appreciation to the Tunisian government, particularly the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Culture, and Youth and Sports, for their support. She also thanked the Municipality of Carthage, the National Heritage Institute of Tunisia, the Amphitheatre management and sponsors including Mahindra, Green Car, Nejma Voyages and Houdou for their contributions.
The celebration underscored yoga’s rising popularity in Tunisia and reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Tunisia to promoting health, wellness and people-to-people ties through cultural exchange.
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