Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the International Yoga Day event in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, called yoga a “powerful pause button” that the world urgently needs amid increasing unrest and instability.

Speaking at the 11th edition of the global celebration, PM Modi said, “The mantra ‘Sarve bhavantu sukhinah’ – may all be happy – must guide our way of life. Sadly, the world is currently witnessing growing violence and a deepening sense of unease. Yoga offers a moment to breathe, reflect, and find equilibrium.”

Referring to ongoing conflicts in regions such as West Asia and Europe, he underlined yoga’s role in dissolving personal egos and nurturing a collective spirit. “Yoga shifts us from ‘me’ to ‘we’. It brings people together, rising above divisions,” he noted.

Elaborating on this year’s theme, ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, PM Modi said it reflects the interconnected nature of all life on the planet. “At first, yoga helps individuals take charge of their personal well-being. But gradually, it expands awareness – reminding us that our health is linked to the health of the Earth and all its beings.”

He described yoga not only as a practice for personal transformation but also as a path toward unity with nature and society. “Yoga connects us with the larger world. It makes us realize we are not alone – we are part of a bigger whole.”

PM Modi emphasized that yoga transcends borders and backgrounds. “It’s not confined to any one country, culture, or age group,” he said. “From the Sydney Opera House to the summit of Everest, across seas and continents – yoga belongs to everyone.”