The 3rd International Day of Yoga (IDY) was celebrated by the High Commission of India, Ottawa on June 25, 2017 at an impressive function at one of the most prestigious venues in Ottawa - Infinity Convention Centre.

The event witnessed a registration of 900 tickets. All the participants were given complimentary, specially designed T-shirts with the IDY logo, sponsored by a number of local community organizations and institutions. There was immense enthusiasm amongst the participants with some people travelling even from Montreal.

The programme began with a screening of PM’s message on the occasion of the 3rd IDY.

High Commissioner Vikas Swarup, in his welcome remarks, brought out the significance of the 3rd IDY, happening at a time of Canada@150 and India@70. He thanked all the sponsors for their contribution towards this event.

Mayor of the City of Ottawa, Jim Watson was the Chief Guest. He recalled his visit to India in 2016, calling it a “once in a lifetime opportunity”, complimented PM Modi for his initiative to get the UN to declare an International day of Yoga and praised the contribution of the Indo-Canadian community in the economic and social development of Ottawa.

Darshan Kang, MP, who flew in especially from Calgary to grace the occasion, MP for Nepean Chandra Arya, and two members of the Provincial Assembly of Ontario, Jack Maclaren and Lisa Macleod were the Guests of Honour. They all spoke very positively about India and the importance of yoga in overcoming the stresses of everyday life.

Members of the diplomatic corps were also present, including Mr Kali Pokhrel, Ambassador of Nepal, and the wife of the Ambassador of China.

The Brand Ambassador of the event was legendary Canadian Ice Hockey player Todd White, who has played in over 650 NHL games and has represented the Ottawa Senators team. The gathering was given a selfie opportunity with him which was well availed of. Todd White also participated in the yoga session, as he has been practising Yoga for quite some time.

Mrs. Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, wife of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sent a special video message exclusively for the event. She thanked everyone for the work being done to promote the healing practice of Yoga. She complimented all yogis practising in Canada and said that Yoga teaches us self respect and self love that radiates on the whole community and on the whole planet.

The Yoga session was conducted by Art of Living instructor - Ms Ketevan Chigogidze. She was assisted by Evan Runge and Anantha Mahadevan.

Following the yoga practice, all the participants were provided with free refreshments and herbal tea.

Mirch Masala Radio was our media partner and its DJ Hunsdeep Rangar the MC for the event.

The 3rd IDY celebration in Ottawa has proved to be a resounding success. This should lead to even greater popularity of Yoga in Canada.

Ottawa
26.6.2017