International Day of Peace 2026: from Inner Peace to World Peace
United by the message of peace, understanding and compassion
On 21 September 2026, the Yoga in Daily Life community around the world celebrated the International Day of Peace, inspired by the teachings of Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Sri Swami Maheshwarananda Puriji – Vishwaguruji.
Through gatherings, meditation, yoga practice and peace ceremonies, participants renewed their commitment to fostering understanding, respect and tolerance among nations, cultures and religions, promoting non-violence, and protecting nature and the environment.
Peace Begins Within
Vishwaguruji initiated the planting of Peace Trees as living symbols of peace and reminders of our shared responsibility to build a more peaceful world. Continuing this meaningful tradition, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Sri Avatar Puri Ji, Vishwaguruji’s successor, also planted a Peace Tree, reaffirming the message that lasting world peace begins with inner peace.
During a special alumni gathering at Sarala Birla Academy in Bangalore, India, MM Swami Sri Avatar Puri Ji spoke about his current work, the worldwide mission of Sri Vishwaguruji, the ashrams, humanitarian activities and the message of Yoga in Daily Life.
On 20 September, he also guided students, teachers and alumni through a short meditation on inner peace. The meditation was followed by the planting of a tree, a simple yet meaningful gesture symbolising growth, strong roots and the hope for a more peaceful future.
Yoga in Daily Life Communities Unite for Peace
Throughout the Yoga in Daily Life community, people gathered around Peace Trees planted by Vishwaguruji in towns and communities around the world. They lit candles and recited the universal peace mantra, offering heartfelt prayers for the happiness and well-being of all living beings.
Yoga in Daily Life centres and communities also organised a variety of events, including talks on peace and non-violence, yoga classes and meditation sessions. Through these gatherings and shared practices, participants reflected on how each individual can contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious world through mindful actions, mutual respect, compassion and care for nature and the environment.
Photo galleries from Yoga in Daily Life communities around the world:
Australia
Brisbane
Melbourne
Austria
Vienna
International Day of Peace commemorated at the United Nations Vienna International Centre (link)
Eisenstadt
Salzburg
Villach
Croatia
Zagreb
Čakovec
Duga Uvala
Labin
Rijeka
Samobor
Split
Umag
Czech Republic
Blansko
Hungary
Szeged
Érd
India
Sri Vishwa Deep Gurukul Swami Maheshwarananda Ashram, Jadan
Slovakia
Banska Bystrica
Slovenia
Novo Mesto
Kranj
UK
London
USA
New York City
One Shared Prayer for World Peace
From Australasia and Europe to India and the Americas, the Yoga in Daily Life community united in the spirit of the International Day of Peace. Though celebrations took place in different countries and communities, they shared one intention: to nurture inner peace and contribute to peace in the world.
The Peace Trees stand as living reminders of this commitment. Just as a tree grows from strong roots, peace grows through the values we cultivate within ourselves and express in our daily lives.
Inspired by Vishwaguruji’s teachings and continuing the tradition through the guidance of his successor, MM Swami Sri Avatar Puri Ji, the Yoga in Daily Life community renews its dedication to a world founded on peace, respect, compassion and harmony with nature.
