Understanding the Guardian Ring Programme

As part of his Mann Ki Baat Programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Guardian Ring programme's celebration of the sun's movement, embodying the principle of “One Sun, One Earth”.

• The Guardian Ring was a unique and innovative feature of the 8th edition of the “ International Yoga Day 2022 ”.
• The programme was a collaborative effort between 79 countries, United Nations organisations, and Indian Missions abroad, demonstrating the unifying power of yoga that transcends national borders.
• From the east to the west, people from all participating countries greeted the sun with yoga, honouring the Indian tradition of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) on June 21st.
• The programme commenced in Fiji in the east and concluded in San Francisco, USA.
• The Guardian Ring programme was broadcasted live exclusively on DD India - India’s International Public Broadcasting channel.
• The vast initiative involved collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush and the Ministry of External Affairs, in addition to coordination with individual Indian Missions and Embassies.

Delve into the background, origin, and history of Yoga as a cultural gift from India in the related article.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

• The Guardian Ring programme carried forward India's message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world as one family) and displayed the unifying power of India’s Yoga tradition.
• The phrase Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam consists of three Sanskrit words: Vasudhaa (earth/world), iva (like), and kutumbakam (large/extended family). This verse is referenced in the Maha Upanishad (VI.72), Hitopadesha, and other notable Indian literary works.