NEW YORK – The United Nations has officially declared December 21 as World Meditation Day to promote the benefits of meditation for health, well-being, and inner transformation. The resolution was adopted unanimously at the UN General Assembly, with India playing a pivotal role as a co-sponsor.
Marking the Winter Solstice, December 21 holds special significance in Indian tradition as the beginning of Uttarayana, an auspicious period for inner reflection. This day is now dedicated to fostering comprehensive well-being globally through meditation.
India’s leadership in this initiative is rooted in its civilizational philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the idea that the whole world is one family. This achievement follows India’s earlier success in guiding the UN’s declaration of June 21 as International Day of Yoga in 2014, which has since inspired a worldwide yoga movement.
The inaugural World Meditation Day will be celebrated at the UN Headquarters in New York, with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as the keynote speaker. Speaking on India’s role, officials noted that the resolution underscores the country’s dedication to promoting practices that enhance human well-being and foster inner peace.