In a landmark celebration of the International Day of Yoga, the Indian Embassy in Guatemala, representing the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), hosted the largest yoga gathering ever seen in Central America—and possibly outside India—on June 13, 2025. Held in San Pedro Carchá, Cobán, this monumental event attracted more than 10,000 yoga enthusiasts, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of yoga on the global stage. The event was jointly organized with the Municipality of San Pedro Carchá, the Association of Don Bosco Center, and supported by Alta Verapaz Governor Ms. Dilia Margarita Co Coy.
To set the stage for this mega celebration, the Embassy had already hosted two large prelude yoga events on June 11. The first was held in Izabal with around 550 participants, and the second in Chalal with a turnout of 1,500 people. These lead-up events highlighted the growing popularity of yoga across Guatemala’s interior regions.
The June 13 event saw full-fledged collaboration from several government bodies and private organizations. The Ministry of Education, Ministry of Defense, the host municipality, Don Bosco Center, Talita Kumu, and a number of Indian companies such as HCL Tech, TCS, Grupo Uma, Caplin Point, 24X7 a.i., Lukham Pharma, Krishper Healthcare, Strikar Pharma, Lakshmi Capital, Pradilsha, Khushi Enterprises, and Sierra Textiles contributed significantly. Their involvement ranged from participant mobilization and logistical support to offering promotional and wellness materials, making the event seamless and inclusive.
Youth participation was a focal point of the event. A staggering number of over 10,000 students from educational institutions in the region formed the heart of the audience. This overwhelming turnout was a testimony to how yoga is resonating deeply with Guatemala’s younger generation.
This grand event wasn’t a standalone success but the culmination of years of sustained efforts by the Indian Embassy. Starting in 2022 with 2,500 participants in Mariscal Zavala, participation grew steadily to 3,500 in 2023 and then 5,000 in 2024. With the number surpassing 10,000 this year, Guatemala has emerged as a leading country in promoting yoga with extraordinary energy and commitment. These annual celebrations have also been instrumental in bringing yoga to remote areas through free workshops, community programs, and school-based activities.
The event commenced on a solemn note with a one-minute silence to mourn the tragic loss of 274 lives in the plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad, India, on June 12, 2025. Local Guatemalan dignitaries joined in paying their respects and expressing solidarity with India.
Following the tribute, a moving performance of the national anthems of Guatemala, India, and San Pedro Carchá was carried out by the Don Bosco Center’s Music Band Symphony Orchestra, representing the Music School-Art and Culture section.
Mayor Erwin Alfonso Catún Maquín of San Pedro Carchá formally opened the event, extending a warm welcome to all attendees. Remarks were also delivered by Governor Dilia Margarita Co Coy, representatives of the Don Bosco Association, and Indian Ambassador to Guatemala, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra. The Ambassador emphasized yoga’s universal relevance, calling it “a powerful tool for peace and wellbeing.” He also presented three busts of Mahatma Gandhi to the Don Bosco institutions to symbolize India’s enduring values of peace and nonviolence.
Key contributors to the event received special honors during the ceremony. Commemorative plaques were handed out to sponsors, municipal partners, and Indian business representatives in recognition of their support. In his heartfelt address, Ambassador Mohapatra said, “I thank the ICCR and all our stakeholders for their pivotal role in making this the largest yoga gathering outside India.” He specially acknowledged the efforts of the San Pedro Carchá Municipality, headed by Mayor Maquín, and the Association of Don Bosco for their dynamic youth outreach.
He also credited the Ministry of Defense for their crucial role in crowd management and safety. Local vendors and partners who provided t-shirts, nutritious food, and transportation were praised for fostering an inclusive and celebratory environment. Governor Dilia Margarita Co Coy, Mayor Maquín, and Father Antonio de Groot of Don Bosco were honored for their invaluable contributions.
A notable moment of appreciation came from Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja, Publisher and Editor of The Indian Panorama, a digital weekly published from New York. He presented Ambassador Mohapatra with a replica of the Golden Temple, describing it as “a symbol of honor and recognition from the global Sikh community.”
Mayor Maquín expressed his gratitude to the Embassy and ICCR, stating, “We are proud to have been part of this historic event and pledge to continue promoting yoga as part of our community’s everyday life.” Indian business sponsors echoed these sentiments, proud to be part of a movement that enhances wellness and fosters deeper India-Guatemala ties. Contributions like yoga mats, refreshments, t-shirts, and water bottles ensured the event was accessible and welcoming to all.
The yoga session itself, led by Embassy Yoga teacher Ms. Ruth Morales, followed the Common Yoga Protocol under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” Participants of all ages, from students and teachers to military officers and civilians, participated enthusiastically. Under Morales’ guidance, they practiced asanas, pranayama, and meditation focused on physical fitness, mental clarity, and ecological harmony.
The visual of over 10,000 people practicing yoga in unison under the morning sun at the Juan Ramón Ponce Guay Stadium was nothing short of breathtaking. As the session ended, Mayor Maquín encouraged attendees to join him in a dance, which they did with infectious enthusiasm. Youth participation remained high-spirited throughout, even during the impromptu dance session.
Earlier that morning, folk dancers performed an electrifying routine inside the stadium, which was met with loud applause and joy from the attendees. As participants headed home, they were given refreshment bags, adding a thoughtful touch to the event.
Later, Mayor Maquín hosted a lunch in honor of the Indian Embassy staff and their guests. Among them were senior journalist and novelist Baldev Singh Grewal and acclaimed photographer Jay Mandal, both from New York, who were present to witness and document the celebration.
Following the success of this historic gathering, the Indian Embassy is now preparing to host additional International Day of Yoga events in San Salvador and Tegucigalpa on June 21, 2025. These upcoming celebrations, supported by local authorities and sponsors, aim to further amplify India’s message of health, harmony, and peace through yoga.
India’s growing impact in Guatemala has not only strengthened bilateral ties but also demonstrated the power of cultural diplomacy. Through yoga, India has united thousands across borders in a shared pursuit of well-being and inner peace.