KUWAIT: Ambassador of India to Kuwait Sibi George (left) participates in the event.

KUWAIT: The Embassy of India in Kuwait celebrated the '7th International Day of Yoga (IDY)-2021' on the theme 'Yoga For Wellness' at the Embassy of India premises recently in hybrid format. The event is one of the many events the Embassy, under the banner of Indian Cultural Network (ICN), has been organizing, under India@75 and 60th anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Kuwait. The event also marks the government of India's initiative to spread awareness about Yoga and its benefits, all around the world.

Ambassador of India to Kuwait Sibi George delivered the opening remarks on this prestigious event. Ambassador, in his speech, welcomed and thanked Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State (IC) Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Minister of State for Minority Affairs, government of India for his special Video Message on International Yoga Day.

He expressed his gratitude to the government of State of Kuwait and other Indian associations and groups in Kuwait for providing India with Medical Assistance when it was required the most. The ambassador also highlighted the improving COVID-19 situation in India. He underlined the importance of Yoga in the current scenario, and asked all to adopt Yoga in their lives.

Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State (IC) Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Minister of State for Minority Affairs, government of India presented his greetings on celebration of 7th International Day of Yoga (IDY)-2021 through a video message. He mentioned the importance of Yoga and also highlighted the transformation Yoga can bring in one's life, especially during these challenging pandemic times.

He thanked the leadership of the State of Kuwait for hosting a large Indian community in Kuwait and the people of Kuwait for the care and support extended to the Indian community during the COVID-19 pandemic. In his speech, Rijiju thanked and acknowledged the support of Government of State of Kuwait and Indian Diaspora in Kuwait for their supply of oxygen to India, during critical times.

In addition to celebration of International Day of Yoga (IDY), in Kuwait, the embassy also felicitated the winner of 'Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz (BKJQ)' from Kuwait by conferring silver medal and certificate. A special edition of 'AYUSH Bulletin' on Yoga was also released. Video Messages from Yoga Gurus viz.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, Dr HR Nagendra, Shri Kamlesh Patel and Sister Jayanti on importance of Yoga, were also streamed. The event also witnessed live demo of Yogasanas, while following COVID-19 protocols. The event received a huge response from Kuwait on the embassy's social media.