On 20 December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated the recipients of the Prime Minister’s Yoga Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Promotion and Development of Yoga for the years 2021–2025, recognizing individuals and institutions that have significantly advanced yoga as a global wellness practice rooted in India’s civilizational heritage.

The 2021 Prime Minister’s Yoga Award was conferred on Brazilian yoga educator Mr. Marcus Vinicius Rojo Rodrigues, acknowledging his pioneering role in promoting yoga in Brazil and strengthening cultural connections between India and Latin America. Over the years, his sustained efforts have helped introduce yoga to diverse communities, integrating its physical, mental, and philosophical dimensions into contemporary wellness practices.

Mr. Rodrigues work stands out for its emphasis on authenticity, accessibility, and intercultural dialogue. By adapting yoga teachings to local contexts while preserving their foundational principles, he has contributed to a deeper understanding of yoga beyond physical exercise, positioning it as a holistic discipline for well-being and self-awareness.

The recognition highlights India’s growing emphasis on cultural diplomacy, where yoga serves as a bridge connecting societies across geographies. Brazil’s vibrant engagement with yoga reflects the expanding resonance of Indian knowledge systems in Latin America, driven by people-to-people exchanges and shared values around health, balance, and harmony.

This honour not only celebrates an individual achievement but also underscores the enduring global relevance of yoga as a unifying force—strengthening India–Brazil ties while reinforcing yoga’s role in promoting wellness, dialogue, and mutual respect across cultures.