Nagaland marks Father’s Day as Yoga Day observance deferred amid opposition

Kohima, June 21: While the rest of the country observed International Yoga Day on Sunday, Nagaland spent the day celebrating Father’s Day after the state government postponed official Yoga Day programmes to June 22 amid opposition from church organisations and student bodies.

The decision came following strong objections from several church groups and student organisations, which raised cultural and religious concerns over the observance of Yoga Day in the state. Student bodies had also warned against making yoga activities compulsory in educational institutions, leading to uncertainty over participation in official events.

In response, the state government deferred the observance of International Yoga Day to Monday. However, questions remain over the extent of participation by schools and other institutions in the rescheduled programme.

The development stood in contrast to celebrations elsewhere in the country, where large-scale Yoga Day events were held on June 21. In neighbouring Meghalaya, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the Indian Air Force’s Yoga Day programme at the Air Force Station in Upper Shillong.

As the debate over Yoga Day continued, churches across Nagaland marked Father’s Day with special worship services, prayers and messages recognising the role of fathers in families and society.

Congregations gathered for dedicated services honouring fathers, with pastors encouraging families to express gratitude for their contributions and responsibilities. Special prayers and blessings were offered in many churches, while sermons highlighted the importance of fatherhood, faith and family values.

The postponement of Yoga Day has once again underscored the delicate balance the Nagaland government must maintain between national initiatives and local religious and cultural sensitivities. Whether the rescheduled observance on June 22 will see wider participation remains to be seen.

Also Read: Jan Kalyan Shivir successfully conducted at Boleng to commemorate 12 years of trust, development and public welfare

Also awatch

Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.