Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called on everyone to make daily yoga practice a part of life. Speaking at an event marking the 11th International Yoga Day in Patan, he said yoga supports peace, health, and humanity. The event was held under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
PM Oli emphasized that yoga offers many benefits beyond physical health. He said it brings discipline, promotes inner peace, and improves society as a whole. According to him, a life without discipline makes true meditation impossible.
He also spoke about the rising lack of discipline in Nepali society. Without focus and good intentions, he said, people struggle to live in peace. He added that the need for intelligent yoga practice is greater now than ever.
Oli urged the public to adopt yoga not just as exercise but as a way of life. He said it should be part of a healthy routine that includes balanced meals and enough rest. He stressed the importance of eating food free from harmful chemicals and avoiding overeating.
He said that the goal should be a healthy population, not just more doctors. He reminded everyone that disease prevention is always better than relying on a cure. Yoga, when practiced daily, can keep people out of hospitals and reduce their need for medicine.
PM Oli also linked yoga to national progress. He said his vision of a happy and successful Nepal depends on healthy and disciplined citizens. According to him, a peaceful world starts with individuals who live calmly and think clearly. Non-violence and truth are the heart of this way of life.
He stated that the world urgently needs peace. If those who fight and cause harm could understand the value of peace, global conflicts might end. He said that yoga can teach people to think positively and act wisely.
The Prime Minister said that yoga is not only good for the body but also essential for a well-run society. He warned that careless habits harm health and bring unnecessary medical costs. Regular yoga and meditation, he added, can lead to a happier life.
On the special occasion, he offered good wishes to all celebrating Yoga Day. He shared that, in Hindu belief, yoga began with Lord Shiva, also called Adiyogi. Oli also mentioned that the ancient sage Bishwamitra advanced medical knowledge and helped his grandson Charak become a doctor. He said that yoga flourished during this time and became a major force for healing and balance.
He reflected on his own past, recalling the time he spent in prison. During that period, he said he was given only tranquilizers, which later damaged his kidneys. He explained that while yoga and meditation are powerful, they are not a replacement for surgery or urgent medical care. He said people must also take action and not rely on yoga alone.
During the event, Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Rajhuji Panta, spoke about yoga as part of Nepal’s culture. He said yoga and meditation have deep roots in the country and should be preserved as national treasures.
Badri Prasad Pandey, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, also praised yoga’s health benefits. He said yoga is strongly tied to Nepal’s identity and added that Nepal is a top global destination for yoga lovers.
Dr. Dipak Regmi, a yoga expert, noted that yoga is now being taught with scientific methods. He said people can gain peace, happiness, and wellness through regular practice.
Many yoga practitioners, experts, and groups attended the celebration, showing growing interest in yoga across Nepal.
