An Invitation to Contemplate an Expanded Understanding of International Yoga Day

Photo by Gayatri Malhotra on Unsplash

Last night at 8:45pm as I was digging in my garden under a smoky blue sapphire sky, and it occurred to me that the Summer Solstice is just around the bend. 

Later as I sat on my meditation cushion, I remembered International Yoga Day (IYD) is also on the Solstice. Hmmm? Isn’t that interesting?? Was that purely coincidence or was it intentional because yoga is supposed to help us become more intentional, right?!  How long have we had IYD and what instigated it? 

(After having these thoughts, I did manage to eke out some meditation.) 

The historian in me wanted to know more about IYD because I think (and teach) it is crucial to critically examine the world – the people, our institutions and claims we create – so we can be diligent about not being taken advantage of. This is part of my personal definition of self-responsibility. 

I want to know why I’m doing 108 salutations, or liking or making a post promoting IYD. I want to know what it is – actually – that I’m showing up for. I want to understand what is getting my support, precious time and attention. Maybe you’re curious, too?

The Power Play of International Yoga Day: Modi's Hidden Agenda?

International Yoga Day, proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was adopted by the United Nations in 2014, and since has gained significant popularity as a global celebration of yoga. It seems like a real nice thing, huh?

But, why did Modi propose this? What could have been his reasons – beyond his altruist love of yoga? He is a politician after all. Doesn't it seem reasonable to consider his motives and the (political, social, economic, religious) factors that led to its adoption and celebration – on the longest day of light of the year?

Context is paramount when assessing the impact and implications of IYD because while it may promote personal well-being and unity on an individual level, we must not overlook the bigger picture out of which it was born. I’ve always been a big fan of questioning the narrative.

Please note: I’m not trying to ruin your fun or murder yoga here. I’m just asking questions. It’s called prashna. 

Global Harmony or Cultural Dominance?

Nationalist movements have been prevalent in global politics in recent years including right here in the good ole U. S. of A. Critics argue the right-wing Hindi nationalist movement and Modi's government had ulterior motives, using International Yoga Day to legitimize and glorify yoga as a means to further their cause and project India's cultural dominance. Modi’s opponents assert he uses yoga and IYD as soft power. Soft Power is a term used in international relations that means the ability to obtain preferred outcomes by attraction rather than coercion. It’s political manipulation with a passive-aggressive twist. 

(And if you're thinking, “Oh, I don’t get into politics, and…. my yoga isn’t political,” it’s important to recognize that yoga is a practice that inherently promotes prosocial behaviors like supporting equity and social justice. While your personal practice might feel apolitical, the broader system of yoga has always engaged with societal issues and the pursuit of collective well-being. The philosophy of yoga teaches us to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and awareness, which naturally extend to how we interact with and impact the world around us. Just sayin.)

International Yoga Day has faced criticism for diverting attention from serious human rights violations, particularly the treatment and oppression of Muslims in India. Critics argue Prime Minister Modi uses IYD to promote India's cultural superiority and Hindu values globally. This move overshadows pressing political and social issues, especially in regions like Jammu and Kashmir where Islamophobia and the revocation of the region's special autonomous status has caused suffering and bloodshed. By using IYD to focus on yoga as a solution to global challenges, there is a risk of ignoring urgent issues demanding immediate attention. It basically makes Modu look like this good altruist guy, but please don’t look behind the curtain. 

Yoga for All, But at What Cost?

International Yoga Day, as a global celebration, provides an opportunity to engage critically with the complexities surrounding yoga. I argue it is essential to acknowledge and understand the multifaceted nature of yoga's impact on individuals, communities, and society at large. It is necessary to consider how initiatives like International Yoga Day divert attention from pressing human rights violations, discrimination, and social justice concerns faced by marginalized communities. 

Or you can just grab it and growl. After all, it is ‘your’ yoga practice so it can be anything you want it to be, right?!? 

Ok. That was a little snarky. 

IMO, it is essential to maintain a balance between celebrating yoga's benefits and addressing human rights concerns, ensuring that International Yoga Day does not become a mere distraction from the pressing issues faced by religious and ethnic minorities in Modi’s India. 

And maybe just maybe, by cultivating a culture of continuous education, critical engagement and open dialogue, we can navigate the potential pitfalls and ensure our support for International Yoga Day aligns with the values of inclusivity, social justice, and respect for all. Ya know, yoga that yogas. 

Yoga is Action 

So what are your thoughts as you consider this? Now that you have some background information, what part of you does it touch? What is alive for you in this? Does it give you pause or change the way you perceive International Yoga Day? What actions rooted in the co-regulating ethics of the Yamas could you take to both respect and celebrate the tradition while at the same acknowledging the problematic contexts?

For me, I first cast my eyes upward and inward…

My Prayer

Great Spirit, we acknowledge the profound impact of yoga on countless lives – and the celebration of it. We are grateful for the gifts it has bestowed upon so many. 

Great Spirit, we humbly ask for guidance as we embark on a path of both head and heart, thinking critically so our pursuit of knowledge and discernment deepens our connection to yoga's profound teachings and empowers us to honor all beings well-being.

Great Spirit, if we choose to celebrate International Yoga Day, may it be a reminder not only to engage in the physical practice of yoga but also to engage in the whole, holistic, thoughtful system of ethical engagement.

Let us ensure our support for this celebration aligns with our professed values, promotes inclusivity, and contributes to a more informed and mindful world, thus honoring yoga’s profound impact on individuals and communities globally and throughout time. 

May we navigate the line between appreciating the positive aspects of yoga and acknowledging the potential harm that can arise from its misrepresentation. May we use our minds well to promote a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of yoga and its cultural significance. May our chosen actions reflect our values and your grace. Let it be so. Aho.