Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar today inaugurated the International Yoga Day celebrations at the European Parliament in Brussels, saying Yoga is aspiring for the highest goal of the world as one family.
"I am so glad that today here in the European Parliament, the heart of Europe, where 48 countries sit and do their deliberations and lead their countries, they are taking up this beautiful mission of wellness and bringing happiness to people," Ravi Shankar said while interacting with parliament members at the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin Hall.
He said, "Is Yoga only a physical exercise? No! Yoga is bringing the rhythm in life. Yoga is feeling the connection with oneself. And with everyone around. Yoga is aspiring for the highest goal of the world as one family. And unity with the infinity. It brings harmony in one's environment."
He said, "I would like to thank UN for declaring last year June 21, the longest day, as World Yoga Day. Especially the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) who has made extra effort to bring Yoga to the main stream population."
The AOL founder said that though Yoga was born in the Indian sub continent, "it belongs to the world".
G Van Orden, Member of the European Parliament for the East of England region for the Conservative Party, praised Ravi Shankar for his work on disaster relief and peace missions in various countries.
