1.The High Commission of India, celebrated the International Yoga Day (IDY), in partnership with scores of Indian community organisations (http://www.hciottawa.ca/), with great enthusiasm today in Ottawa.

2.Participants packed the 10,000 square feet large, Centurion Exhibition and Event Center, which was leased for the purpose, donning souvenir Yoga shirts which were specially designed for the event and presented by Indian community and business organisations. Each participant was also gifted a DVD containing messages from Prime Minister (PM) Hon'ble Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister (EAM) Hon'ble Sushma Swaraj, as well as, step-by-step Yoga asanas (postures). A majority of the participants had no previous experience of Yoga.

3.The event opened with rendition of national anthems of both countries followed by playing of video recording of messages by PM and EAM. High Commissioner Vishnu Prakash, welcomed the participants, highlighting the benefits of Yoga. The Guests of Honour, President Ms. Roseanne Runte of Carleton University and Member of Parliament Mr. Chandra Arya, next addressed the audience. The ensuing flute and classical Indian dance recitals, were enjoyed by the attendees and received a thunderous applause.

4.A one-hour long Yoga-on-the-mat session followed which was conducted by well established Yoga instructors and displayed simultaneously on three large screens, for the benefit of the practitioners.

5.The Mayor of Ottawa Mr. Jim Watson delivered the closing remarks. All participants were treated to a simple Indian vegetarian lunch and herbal tea.

6.A number of organisations including Indian Tourism put up display booths at the venue.

Ottawa 26 June 2016