By: Dr Avi Verma

The 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was marked with a vibrant and inspiring celebration at one of Chicago’s most iconic locations—Navy Pier. Organized by the Consulate General of India, Chicago, the event attracted more than 400 yoga enthusiasts from across the region who gathered to honor the global significance of yoga and its power to unite mind, body, and community.
The celebration was inaugurated by Consul General Somnath Ghosh, who delivered opening remarks emphasizing this year’s IDY theme: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” He described yoga as a timeless gift from India’s ancient heritage that continues to offer balance and sustainability—not just as a physical practice, but as a holistic lifestyle rooted in harmony with self, society, and nature.

Consul General Ghosh highlighted yoga’s global reach and inclusive nature, noting how it transcends borders, cultures, and faiths to become a universal practice of well-being. “Yoga,” he said, “is not just a set of exercises, but a philosophy of mindful living—benefiting both personal health and planetary harmony.”

The event featured a live demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol, skillfully led by experienced instructors who guided the crowd through foundational yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Among the instructors were Ms. Anu Malhotra, Ms. Vimi Shukla, Ms. Parna Mazumdar, Ms. Pam Brockman, and Ms. Saba Haider, each contributing to the uplifting atmosphere and collective spirit.
Set in the serene Polk Bros Park, with the calm waters of Lake Michigan in the background, the morning was marked by blue skies, fresh air, and vibrant participation. Yoga mats lined the lush green lawns as attendees followed the flow in peaceful unison, embodying the unity and mindfulness that the day celebrates.

The success of the event was made possible through the support of several community partners and sponsors, including State Bank of India, Chicago. Dozens of yoga and cultural organizations contributed to the celebration, such as Art of Living – Chicago, Mindful Meditation, Isha Foundation, Sewa International USA, Brahma Kumaris, Sahaja Yoga, Heartfulness, Yoga Habitat, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Yogapathic, and others. Media partners included Indo-US Tribune, TV Asia, I-USA Media, Adbhut Media, and PTC News.

Beyond Chicago, the Consulate supported International Day of Yoga events throughout its jurisdiction. Celebrations took place in Urbana at the University of Illinois, in St. Louis, MO, in several cities across Michigan, in Pewaukee, WI, and in Johnston, IA. Events were also organized in partnership with Indian cultural groups such as Chinmaya Mission, Sanskriti Pewaukee, Icon Shakti, United Senior Pariwar, National Indian Hub, and the Indian Community of Niles Township.
From large cities to suburban neighborhoods, the 2025 International Day of Yoga became a shared moment of global mindfulness—bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds in the pursuit of health, harmony, and inner peace.