International Yoga Day: PM Modi Says Exercise as Important as Salt in Life

"Yoga, like the way it unites the body, mind and soul has played a big role in binding the world by cutting across linguistic and cultural barriers," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on the third International Yoga Day.

Addressing a huge gathering at the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan in Lucknow, Modi asserted that the traditional practice has now become part of every person's life.

"Many countries which do not know our language, tradition, or culture, are now connecting to India through Yoga. The practice, which connects body, mind and soul, has played a big role in binding the world too," he said.

Donning a white t-shirt and loose trousers, Modi also performed asanas along with over 51,000 yoga enthusiasts braving early morning drizzles.

"Earlier, Yoga was only restricted to saints and seers in the Himalayan mountains. Now, it has become part of every person's life," he said in his address.