Embassy of India
Dili
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Press Release

Celebration of the 11th International Day of Yoga in Dili

The 11th International Day of Yoga was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 21 June 2025 in Dili, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Art & Culture of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. Hon’ble Prime Minister of India has sent a letter dated 15 May 2025 to Prime Minister of Timor Leste for support in making International Day of Yoga a success. Consequently, PM Xanana Gusmao instructed Ministry of Youth, Sport, Art and Culture to extend necessary assistance to the Embassy of India in organizing the yoga event. 

His Excellency Mr. Mariano Assanami Sabino, Vice Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, graced the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by His Excellency Mr. Jorge Soares Cristovão, Secretary of State for Art and Culture. His Excellency VPM was impressed by the Yoga regime and discussed conducting weekly Yoga training for officials with Secretary of State and Ambassador. The Embassy assured full support for organizing Yoga classes. 

The event drew over 500 participants, including members of the diplomatic corps, students and local dignitaries, creating a vibrant atmosphere of unity and wellness. The event witnessed participation from various Resident Embassies and International Organizations like WFP, WHO, UNICEF and KOICA. The event also featured 85 Timorese athletes who will compete in the upcoming 12th CPLP Games in Dili. 

The event was supported by Dr. Raja Thangappan, Director, IndoPhil Medical Education, Mr. Ahimsak of Dili Ashtanga Yoga, Ms. Ade and Mr. Meki of AdeMeki and M3 Radio. The Embassy engaged services of Mr. Ahimsak, Dutch national and long time practitioner of Yoga for leading the Yoga session. He was assisted by his team members. He has been conducting professional courses of Yoga in Dili for around a decade. M/s AdeMeki volunteered by providing their event management expertise along with necessary manpower.  

Mission had advertised the Yoga event in local Newspaper and Radio. M3 Radio supported the event by advertising it free of charge for around 2 weeks. The Mission also organized a curtain raiser event in Same on 07 June 2025. The event was also reported in reputed local newspaper. 

Although few in number, Indian citizens enthusiastically joined the event, with families actively promoting Yoga while expressing their patriotic spirit. Additionally, around 100 Indian medical students from Universidade Catolica Timorence (UCT) participated, further enriching the occasion. Dr. Raja Thangappan sponsored T-shirts with IDY logo for the occasion. 

The impressive turnout and enthusiastic participation of local as well as foreign residents reflect the growing popularity of yoga in Timor-Leste, reinforcing its role as a vital practice for health and wellness in the community. 

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