RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — The ancient practice of yoga took center stage in the heart of the Kingdom as the Embassy of India in Riyadh, alongside the Saudi Yoga Committee, marked the 12th International Day of Yoga. Hosted at the iconic Prince Faisal bin Fahd Olympic Complex, the high-profile gathering united over 500 enthusiastic practitioners, including prominent diplomats from various resident missions.
This year’s global UN-recognized celebration centered on a vital modern theme: “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” As wellness trends shift toward longevity, the event spotlighted yoga as a premier tool for preventive healthcare and holistic vitality. The energetic turnout underscored a rapidly growing wellness movement across Saudi Arabia, bridging cultural traditions and modern health aspirations.
A Powerful Alliance for Holistic Wellness
Addressing the vibrant crowd, H.E. Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, expressed profound gratitude to the Saudi authorities and local communities. He emphasized how yoga serves as a universal remedy for modern ailments, enhancing mobility, sharpening cognitive focus, and fostering deep emotional peace. The Ambassador specifically praised the Kingdom’s progressive stance on fitness, citing the partnership with the Saudi Yoga Committee as a shining example of deepening bilateral ties.
Echoing this collaborative spirit, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Al Saadi, CEO of the Saudi Yoga Committee, noted that yoga transcends geographical boundaries to unite individuals chasing a harmonious lifestyle. He highlighted a dramatic surge in certified yoga professionals and practitioners within the Kingdom, signaling a permanent lifestyle shift. The event also drew high-level state support, with attendance from Ministry of Sports Director General H.E. Mr. Hani Mansi and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director Mr. Nafe Alshaibani.
Uniting Tradition and Modern Longevity
“Yoga is more than just exercise; it is a shared pursuit of a healthier, more harmonious lifestyle that transcends boundaries.”
— H.E. Mr. Ahmed Al Saadi, CEO of the Saudi Yoga Committee
The heart of the celebration featured the Common Yoga Protocol session, masterfully led by Embassy instructor Mr. Prem Prabhu. Adding a strong local dimension, Saudi Yoga Committee instructors Ms. Sima Ghanam and Ms. Malak Almughira co-led the session. Together, they guided the diverse crowd through rejuvenating asanas designed to combat the physical toll of aging.
This major event capped off a month-long wave of wellness initiatives across the Kingdom. Earlier curtain-raisers in May and a mega-event in Al-Jubail laid the groundwork for this massive turnout. Through ongoing efforts like weekly classes and an interactive online photo contest, the Embassy continues to champion “Yoga 365,” successfully inspiring residents to adopt the practice as a daily habit for lifelong health.
