First Int'l Wellness Day marked

By A Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, Apr. 16: The first International Arogya (wellness) Day was celebrated at the Army Pavilion, Tundikhel, on Wednesday, following its recognition by the United Nations.

On the occasion, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Khadka Raj Poudel ‘Ganes’, announced ‘Nepal Arogya Year 2027’.

Speaking at the event, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dol Prasad Aryal, said that the concept of wellness should be linked to overall human life and established as a global priority.

“Wellness is not just the absence of disease, it is a state of physical, mental, social, cultural, emotional, spiritual and environmental balance,” he said.

Highlighting growing global conflicts, climate crisis and mental stress, Aryal said wellness should be seen as a ray of hope for humanity.

He also said that Nepal has a strong potential to become a major destination for wellness tourism. “We have mountains, culture, spiritual traditions and natural resources. Now we must focus on quality tourism rather than numbers and position Nepal as a destination offering high value and meaningful experiences,” he added.

Minister Paudel stressed that wellness should be connected to lifestyle, saying Nepal can offer new guidance to the world. 

“Wellness is not about escaping from life’s rush, but about returning within oneself. It is the art of understanding the silence of the soul,” he said.

Citing World Health Organization data, Minister Poudel said more than one billion people globally suffer from mental stress, making wellness highly relevant today. “People have everything, but lack a moment of peace. Nepal can offer the peace the world is searching for,” he added.

According to him, the government has adopted a policy to develop wellness tourism as a form of soft power. “The government’s 100-point action plan aims to make Nepal a global hub for wellness tourism, and 2027 has been declared Wellness Year accordingly,” he said.

The government aims to link wellness tourism with sustainable development, cultural preservation and local prosperity. Minister Poudel said Nepal will be promoted not only as a travel destination but also as a place for self-discovery and inner peace.

Life science expert LP Bhanu Sharma stressed the need for long-term structures to promote wellness. “Ownership must come before leadership. There are three stages of wellness and more than five million people in Nepal are engaged in self-awareness meditation,” he said.

He also suggested forming a high-level commission, developing wellness circuits, and introducing wellness visas and long-term stay policies to promote the sector.

The event began with mantra chanting by Buddhist nun and singer Ani Choying Dolma, followed by meditation and yoga sessions.

Representatives from the Spa Association also shared insights on healing practices. Meditation and yoga programmes, a wellness tourism strategy and a logo were also unveiled at the event.

The United Nations General Assembly had officially recognised April 15 as International Wellness Day following a proposal by the Government of Nepal. This year marks the first global observance of the day.

Meanwhile, The Embassy of Nepal, Dhaka, organised a ‘Wellness Walk’ programme this morning in Dhaka to mark International Wellness Day-2026.  

The event, aimed at raising awareness of the Wellness Day and promoting the importance of balance and harmony within ourselves and with nature, was held under the theme ‘Harmony with Mind, Body, and Nature’. It featured a 45-minute walk, followed by a brief formal session and a Nepali ‘wellness breakfast’ said a press statement issued by the Embassy on Wednesday.

Speaking during the formal session, Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari underscored the relevance of wellness in today’s world, marked by multiple challenges, including wars and armed conflicts, economic inequality, social fragmentation, and the escalating climate crisis. Highlighting wellness practices as living heritage deeply rooted in Nepal’s history and civilization, he shed light on centuries-old Hindu, Buddhist, yogic, and indigenous practices that embrace self-discipline, ethical living, and harmony with nature. 

Similarly, the Embassy of Nepal in Seoul organised a hiking programme at Namsan Mountain Park on Wendesday to mark the first International Wellness Day, said a press statement issued by the Embassy.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shiva Maya Tumbahamphe stressed the importance of maintaining physical and mental health in today's fast-paced world. She said that due to growing professional responsibilities, individuals often fail to give due attention to their physical and mental wellbeing.

At the same time, Consulate General of Nepal in Guangzhou hosted a special event marking International Wellness Day 2026 under the theme "Holistic Wellness for All" in Guangzhou. The event aimed to promote accessible, inclusive wellness practices that nurture the rind, body, and spirit, aligning with the United Nations' recognition of the day. 

Similarly, the first International Arogya Day was observed in Kapilvastu through yoga and meditation. The event was organised by the Kapilvastu Ayurvedic Health Centre under the slogan, “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah” (May all be happy, may all be free from illness). Participants marked the day by practising yoga and meditation.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief District Officer Janardan Gautam said the importance of yoga and Ayurveda in promoting a healthy lifestyle is increasing day by day. He noted that regular practice of yoga and meditation has positive effects on both physical and mental health and expressed confidence that such programmes help raise public awareness.