- India,
- 21-Jun-2026 08:12 AM IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the grand celebrations of the 12th International Yoga Day in Kolkata on June 21, 2026. Joining a massive gathering of 35000 people at the iconic Red Road, the Prime Minister emphasized the global significance of yoga and its role in fostering a healthy world. This year's celebration marks over a decade of yoga gaining international recognition, a journey in which PM Modi has played a pivotal role. The atmosphere in Kolkata was filled with energy as participants from all walks of life gathered to perform various asanas under the guidance of the Prime Minister.
The Grand Session at Red Road
The yoga session led by PM Modi in Kolkata lasted for approximately 45 minutes. The program was meticulously structured to provide a holistic experience, beginning with Pranayama to regulate breathing and enhance vital energy. As the session progressed, various yogic postures were performed, culminating in a deep meditation segment in the final stages, while over 35000 people participated in this specific event, making it one of the largest organized gatherings for the day. PM Modi, who makes it a point to practice yoga among the public every year, sent out a powerful message of global health and immunity through this demonstration.
Nationwide and Global Participation
The 12th International Yoga Day was celebrated with immense fervor across India and the world. In a display of extreme dedication, Indian Army personnel performed yoga at the icy peaks of the Himalayas in Dras. Simultaneously, naval officers and sailors practiced yoga inside submarines stationed in the Bay of Bengal. In Mumbai, members of the Muslim community were seen participating in large numbers, showcasing the inclusive nature of the practice. In Kolkata, the event was further enhanced by a spectacular drone show that depicted various yoga asanas in the sky, creating a visual treat for the spectators.
Major Event in Vijayawada
While the Prime Minister was in Kolkata, another significant event took place in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Yoga Guru Swami Ramdev led a massive yoga session where he was joined by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N, while chandrababu Naidu. Swami Ramdev, who has been instrumental in taking yoga to every household globally, delivered a message of healthy living through yoga. The collaboration between the state government and the yoga guru highlighted the administrative support for wellness initiatives in the region.
Kolkata's Massive Turnout and Weather Challenges
Kolkata emerged as a major hub for the 2026 celebrations, with various programs organized across different parts of the city. It's estimated that nearly 10 lakh people practiced yoga throughout Kolkata on this day. Despite the enthusiasm, the weather posed a challenge as the Meteorological Department had issued a rain and thunderstorm alert for most parts of West Bengal, including Kolkata. In addition to the main event at Red Road, the city hosted 'Run for Yoga' at four different locations, involving 10000 participants who combined physical running with yogic awareness.
PM Modi's Vision: Yoga 365 and Healthy Aging
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi urged citizens to take a pledge not to limit yoga to a single day or a specific event. He encouraged everyone to make yoga an integral part of their lives and families. To support this vision, the government has promoted the 'Yoga 365' scheme, which included a 100-day online yoga program leading up to the main day. The Prime Minister explained the importance of the 2026 theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Aging', stating that yoga is essential for people of all age groups. He quoted a shloka from the Gita, reminding the audience that a balanced diet and regular yoga practice can destroy all sorrows.
Historical Themes of International Yoga Day
The journey of International Yoga Day since its inception in 2015 has been marked by various impactful themes:
- 2015: Yoga for Harmony and Peace
- 2016: Connect the Youth
- 2017: Yoga for Health
- 2018: Yoga for Peace
- 2019: Yoga for Heart
- 2020: Yoga at Home, Yoga with Family
- 2021: Yoga for Wellness
- 2022: Yoga for Humanity
- 2023: Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
- 2024: Yoga for Self and Society
- 2025: One Earth, One Health
- 2026: Yoga for Healthy Aging
A Message of Unity and Energy
PM Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to everyone on the occasion of International Yoga Day, noting that June 21 is the longest day of the year and a symbol of light. He expressed his gratitude to the Kolkata administration for organizing such a magnificent event and mentioned that being in Bengal on this day was a matter of great fortune. He also remembered the legendary Rabindranath Tagore during his speech. The Prime Minister concluded by stating that yoga isn't just for a specific age but is a light of consciousness and energy for all of humanity, serving as a necessity for a better future for the world.
