High Commission of India in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, organized two special meditation sessions to observe the United Nations-designated World Meditation Day on 21st December 2024. The sessions, which took place in Colombo and Ratnapura, provided a unique opportunity for individuals to enhance their mental and physical well-being through the practice of meditation.
The first session was held at the Mayurapathy Meditation Hall in Colombo, while the second session took place simultaneously at Jethvanarama Buddhist Monastery, Kalatuwawa, Ratnapura. Both sessions were attended by a large number of participants and were widely appreciated for their calming and transformative effects.
On 6 December 2024, the United Nations General Assembly in its unanimously adopted resolution A/79/L. 27 declared 21st December as World Meditation Day. The core group of the resolution which included both India & Sri Lanka, made a joint effort to recognise the positive impact of meditation on mental and physical health. The declaration of this day emphasizes the complementary relationship between yoga and meditation, both of which play an integral role in promoting holistic health. The 21st day of December holds special significance as it marks the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere – the shortest day and longest night of the year. This natural phenomenon has been seen as a time for introspection and renewal, making it the perfect occasion for individuals to engage in meditation and reflect on their well-being.
