Yoga Session marking the Sixth International Day of Yoga

In marking the Sixth International Day of Yoga which fell on 21 June, 2020, the High Commission of India organised a yoga session in collaboration with Sri Lanka Army, at the Headquarters of the Sri Lanka Army in Colombo on the same day.   

The High Commissioner of India  Gopal Baglay and Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Sri Lanka Army along with various dignitaries and armed forces personnel participated in the session. The Security Forces Headquarters West, Panagoda and the Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee joined the yoga programme online.   

Commending Sri Lanka Army’s role on the frontline in the fight against the COVID pandemic in Sri Lanka, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay highlighted the benefits of Yoga and Ayurveda in building immunity and reducing stress during the current pandemic. He also noted that billions of people around the world irrespective of their colour, religion, language or race practice some form of Yoga today and enjoy its benefits of health, happiness, greater awareness of inner self and even enlightenment.   

Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva in his address, said that Yoga signifies the solidarity that exists between Sri Lanka and India for thousands of years. He extended his appreciation to the High Commission of India for observing the International Day of Yoga in line with requirements in the prevailing situation. He noted that the virtual Yoga Session was a valued opportunity for all participants to experience a healthy activity which connects body, mind and soul.  

This is the third consecutive year in which the Sri Lanka Army has participated at the International Day of Yoga programme. This year’s yoga session with the Army was organised while adhering to social distancing measures and other health protocols.