On June 21, as the world observes International Yoga Day, Kashmir—the crown of India—has gradually become a significant hub for yoga celebrations. In recent years, the valley, once marred by conflict and unrest, has been embracing yoga not just as a physical exercise but as a symbol of inner peace, unity and cultural resurgence. With each passing year, the increasing participation of youth, students, security forces, spiritual leaders and even tourists reflect a positive transformation sweeping across Jammu and Kashmir.

International Yoga Day, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and endorsed by the United Nations in 2014, is now celebrated with great fervor across the globe. Kashmir, too has made its presence felt with growing participation, iconic venues and a sense of spiritual revival. In the lap of the Himalayas, surrounded by chinar trees, Kashmir is discovering yoga as a bridge between its ancient roots and modern aspirations.

The participation in Yoga Day events across Kashmir symbolizes a larger transformation. Previously seen through the lens of conflict, the youth of Kashmir are now embracing the idea of holistic development, health and inner tranquility. Yoga, once perceived by some as an external cultural imposition, is now being recognized for its universal benefits—irrespective of religion, ethnicity or region.

From Lal Chowk in Srinagar to picturesque landscapes in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Kupwara, yoga mats have become symbols of healing. Women-led yoga sessions, students performing asanas in schools and security personnel participating side by side with civilians depict a Kashmir that seeks stability and balance.Yoga is no longer confined to elite centers or spiritual retreats. It is now an integral part of the education system, with regular yoga sessions conducted in schools and colleges. Non-Governmental Organizations and wellness groups in the valley have started promoting yoga for mental health, especially after years of stress faced by the people due to political uncertainty and militancy.

Though yoga is often associated with Indian philosophical systems such as Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, its roots and ethos resonate deeply with Kashmir’s ancient Shaivite traditions. Kashmir Shaivism, one of the oldest philosophical traditions of the region, promotes unity of the self with the divine an idea central to yoga. In fact, Kashmir has historically been a center of learning, meditation and philosophical exploration. Ancient texts from the region mention yogic and tantric practices that sought inner harmony and cosmic balance. Today, when yoga is practiced across the region, it is not just an imported idea—it is a homecoming.

The celebration of International Yoga Day has revived interest in this lost heritage. Young researchers, spiritual practitioners, and tourists are rediscovering the philosophical treasures of Kashmir through the lens of yoga and meditation. One of the most heartening aspects of Yoga Day in Kashmir is the participation of security forces. Personnel from the Indian Army, BSF, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police have been seen practicing yoga on the banks of the Dal Lake, in the heights of Sonamarg and within their camps. For men and women serving in high-pressure, high-risk environments, yoga has become a valuable tool for mental clarity, stress relief and physical agility.

Yoga sessions are regularly conducted in army schools, border posts and conflict-prone zones. Beyond the physical benefits, yoga fosters a spirit of discipline, patience and inner peace vital qualities for those working under extreme conditions. These sessions also act as a bridge between the forces and local communities, fostering mutual respect and emotional connection.

With Kashmir’s breathtaking natural beauty, there is a growing potential for developing yoga tourism in the valley. Tourists from across India and abroad are showing interest in combining yoga retreats with scenic exploration. Boutique resorts, houseboats and eco-tourism hubs are beginning to host yoga camps and spiritual workshops. From the pristine valleys of Lidder to the alpine meadows of Yusmarg, Kashmir is emerging as a promising yoga destination. This not only enhances its cultural profile but also generates employment and boosts local economies. With government support and private partnerships, yoga tourism can contribute significantly to a peaceful and prosperous Kashmir.

While yoga has made considerable inroads, challenges remain. Skepticism still exists among a section of the population, influenced by misinformation or historical grievances. It is crucial to present yoga not as a political or religious tool, but as a universal practice rooted in health, wellness and inclusivity. Language and accessibility also pose hurdles. More multilingual instructors, localized yoga manuals and community-based outreach are essential to deepen the impact. Moreover, integrating traditional Kashmiri wisdom and healing techniques into modern yoga can make the practice even more rooted and acceptable. Efforts by local organizations, along with government initiatives under the AYUSH Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, must continue to promote yoga in schools, colleges, villages and among marginalized communities. International Yoga Day in Kashmir is no longer just a symbolic event. It is an evolving movement of self-awareness, collective healing and socio-cultural resurgence. As yoga spreads its roots across the valley, it offers not just improved health, but also hope a hope for inner peace in a region long associated with turmoil.The chinar leaves still flutter in the breeze, the snow still blankets the Pir Panjal but within the hearts of many Kashmiris, yoga is sowing the seeds of a new identity, one of peace, strength, balance and unity. And perhaps, in that stillness between two breaths, lies the future of Kashmir- a future of harmony, inclusiveness and light