IOA urges for inclusion of Yoga in Asian Games and Olympics

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has taken significant steps to include yoga as a competitive sport in the Asian Games. This came on the heels of India’s announcement to consider adding Yoga in Asian Gamesto the 2036 Olympic Games roster, should India secure hosting rights for the event.

In a recent communication letter, IOA President P T Usha wrote to Raja Randhir Singh, President of the Olympic Council of Asia, for the inclusion of yoga. She emphasised on the ancient Indian discipline’s benefits for fostering physical and mental health and its growing global appeal.

“The world celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga on 21 June, and the response to its universal appeal has been overwhelming,” Usha noted in her letter. “People across nations have embraced yoga and have drawn its benefits. I am confident that as the spiritual home of yoga and as Vishwaguru, India can campaign for the inclusion of the sport in the Asian Games and eventually the OG as well.”

Highlighting yoga’s potential to attract a wide audience, Usha pointed out that its integration into sports events could be particularly appealing for broadcasters. “Yoga has been a part of the Khelo India Games. Seeing its success, the National Games organisers in Goa included yoga, including mallakhambh and yogasanas, as part of the programme. I am sure that the Olympic Council of Asia will find a good reason to accept my proposal,” she stated.

Usha also mentioned about the Louvre Museum in Paris, which is set to offer yoga sessions to visitors with instructors ahead of the Olympics next month. This initiative will give a platform to the global recognition and acceptance of yoga as more than just a form of exercise but as a cultural and spiritual practice.

“It is heartening that the Louvre is welcoming yoga. It is our responsibility to gain recognition for the sport by getting it included in the Asian Games and Olympic Games,” Usha said, highlighting the importance of this initiative for the global sports community.

The proposal from the IOA comes at a time when yoga’s popularity is increasing worldwide. The inclusion of yoga in major sports events like the Asian Games and the Olympics could further promote its benefits and foster a deeper appreciation of this ancient practice.

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