Nahyan Bin Mubarak Attends The 11th International Day Of Yoga Celebration In Abu Dhabi To Promote Well-Being

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, recently attended the 11th International Day of Yoga celebration. This event was part of the Abu Dhabi Summer Sports Festival at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in the UAE, it carried the theme "Yoga for One Earth, One Health."

The event attracted over 1,000 participants from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the UAE's spirit of openness and coexistence. Sheikh Nahyan expressed his pleasure in joining this annual celebration. He praised yoga for its role in balancing mind and body and highlighted the strong ties between India and the UAE.

Prev

Next

Sheikh Nahyan stated, "I am pleased to be with you today to celebrate the International Day of Yoga, which reflects our ongoing commitment to this ancient practice rooted in Indian wisdom and embraced by peace-loving people around the world. Our shared presence this morning is a living testament to the profound friendship between India and the UAE, and to the strong ties that unite our nations across economic, political, cultural, and social domains."

He also noted that this year marks the 'Year of Community' in the UAE. The celebration emphasised compassion, dialogue, peace, and mutual respect—values integral to yoga. These values are crucial for building cohesive societies. Sheikh Nahyan further stressed that individual well-being is linked to planetary health.

He added, "This year, as we mark the ‘Year of Community’ in the UAE, we also celebrate the core values of compassion, dialogue, peace, and mutual respect—values promoted by yoga and essential to building cohesive, connected societies."

Leadership's Vision

Sheikh Nahyan attributed national well-being efforts to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision. This vision continues under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership. The focus remains on creating a safe society prioritising health and happiness.

He continued by saying that their national commitment stems from their founding father's vision. He acknowledged President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for fostering an inclusive society focused on individual potential.

Community Engagement

The minister highlighted support from Abu Dhabi Sports Council as no coincidence. This partnership underscores nurturing both mind and body from an early age builds strong communities. Students' participation was commended as they learn lessons beyond classrooms about unity.

He remarked on students' engagement: "Our students—our future leaders—are learning lessons today that go beyond the classroom. They are discovering their role in the world, seeing the power of unity and shared experience."

Acknowledging Contributions

In his concluding remarks, Sheikh Nahyan expressed gratitude towards India for initiating this day in 2014. He thanked organisers like teachers and community leaders who promote understanding through such events.

He concluded with appreciation: "This global celebration is a moment to express our gratitude... Your efforts nurture understanding, spread tolerance, and promote peace."

Several ambassadors attended including Sunjay Sudhir from India; Ramūnas Davidonis from Lithuania; Alberto Alejandro Farje Orna from Peru; Tarik Ahamed from Bangladesh; Emilio Ben Gudos from Spain; Anders Hansen from Denmark.

Also present were Aref Hamad Al Awani (Secretary General), Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri (Managing Director), Said Al Ajeel (President), Talal Al Hashemi (Executive Director), Ahmed Shaker (CEO), Abdulrahim Al Zarouni (Director), Saif Al Rashdi (Director) along with Sania Mirza.

Talal Al Hashemi expressed pride over high turnout reflecting growing awareness about yoga as a healthy lifestyle choice among society members.

With inputs from WAM