World Laughter Day

World Laughter Day History

World Laughter Day celebrates the power of laughter to improve health and create bonds between individuals. This observance is built on the idea that laughter is a universal language, capable of bridging gaps, bolstering positivity, and promoting general wellbeing. Globally, it strives to increase public awareness about laughter and its many benefits, encouraging people to integrate it more in their daily lives.

The genesis of World Laughter Day traces back to India, instituted by Dr. Madan Kataria, fondly known as the 'Guru of Giggling', in 1998. He established the laughter yoga movement, a practice combing laughter exercises and yoga breathing, which has since spread internationally. World Laughter Day holds special importance for India as it emphasizes the significance of cheerfulness in our culture, recognising laughter's potential to combat stress, combat diseases, and improve one's overall quality of life. An essential element of this day in India is the theme of unity, teaching participants that laughter can bring us all closer together, despite our diverse backgrounds.

In India, World Laughter Day is observed with public gatherings, laughter yoga sessions, discussions and events that aim to spread joy and create awareness about the therapeutic benefits of laughter. Laughter clubs across the country organise special sessions, with citizens coming together to create a wave of laughter in their communities. People also use this day to propagate light-hearted humor through jokes, comedic performances and cheerful gatherings. World Laughter Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of May, reflecting India's commitment to cultivating happiness and positivity in everyday life.

Facts about World Laughter Day

• Laughter has many health benefits. Laughter can help relax the body, boost the immune system, trigger the release of endorphins, diffuse anger, and it may possibly help you live longer.
• According to the Golden Book Of World Records, the world record for longest laugh was achieved on May 1st, 2022, by Sunil Kumar S. V. from Ernakulam, Kerala, India. The laugh lasted for four hours and six seconds.
• Laughter is primarily a social vocalization that fosters bonding, diffuses potential aggression and eases stress and anxiety.
• Dr. Kataria from India is not only the founder of the Laughter Yoga movement, but also the creator of the "Laughing Buddha," a technique used widely in Laughter Yoga sessions worldwide.
• Indian society has a deep appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of laughter, and the celebration of World Laughter Day is a testament to this. Traditional Indian medicine, or Ayurveda, recognises laughter as a form of healing.

In the News and Trending in India for World Laughter Day

Top things to do in India for World Laughter Day

• Attend the World Laughter Day Celebration by Laughter Yoga International in New Jersey and enjoy laughing with others. There is music and snacks too.
• Arrange for a group laughter session with a leader of one of the many laughter clubs. If you are an employer, it can serve as good therapy for your employees.
• Attend a fun run or marathon in your community on World Laughter Day. These events are a great way to have fun and get some exercise while celebrating the day.
• Attend a laughter yoga session, a unique form of yoga that involves laughing and breathing exercises. Many yoga studios in India offer laughter yoga sessions on World Laughter Day.