The Nagaland Baptist Pastors’ Union (NBPU) expresses its deep concern and strong objection to Circular No. ED/PE-YOGA/2022/29 issued by the Principal Director, Directorate of School Education, Nagaland, directing all the schools, both Government and Private, to observe the International Day of Yoga on 21 June 2026.
While we acknowledge the importance of physical health and wellness, we affirm that Yoga is not merely a system of physical exercise but is historically and philosophically rooted in religious and spiritual traditions that are incompatible with core Christian beliefs and practices.
The Christian faith teaches that salvation, spiritual growth, and communion with God come through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Therefore, the NBPU strongly objects to any directive requiring or encouraging participation in, or observance of, Yoga-related programmes and activities that convey religious, spiritual, or philosophical concepts contrary to biblical teaching and Christian convictions.
The Union further notes that 21 June 2026 falls on a Sunday, the Lord’s Day, which Christians set apart for worship, fellowship, prayer, and the proclamation of God’s Word. This year, the day also coincides with Father’s Day, an occasion observed by many churches and families across Nagaland. We believe that this sacred day should remain devoted to the worship of God and the strengthening of Christian families.
Accordingly, the Nagaland Baptist Pastors’ Union calls upon all Baptist churches, pastors, church leaders, Christian educational institutions, parents, youth, and believers across Nagaland to refrain from participating in the observance of the International Day of Yoga and any related programmes. Instead, we encourage our members to gather faithfully in their respective churches and dedicate the day to the worship of Almighty God, thanksgiving, prayer, and Christian fellowship.
This position is not directed against any religion or community. We uphold peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and religious freedom for all people. At the same time, we believe it is our responsibility to provide biblical guidance to the Christian community and to safeguard the integrity of Christian faith and worship. The NBPU also urges the Government and concerned authorities to respect the freedom of conscience and religion guaranteed under the Constitution of India and to make appropriate accommodations for those whose religious convictions do not permit participation in Yoga-related activities.
We call upon all believers to remain steadfast in their faith, discerning in their practices, and united in their commitment to worship the Lord Jesus Christ in spirit and in truth.
Nagaland Baptist Pastors’ Union
For and on behalf of the
Nagaland Baptist Pastors
(The views expressed are those of the writer and not of the newspaper)
