Millions participated in International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations across India and abroad under the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing."
New Delhi/Kolkata, June 21:
India marked the 12th International Yoga Day on Sunday with large-scale events held across the country and around the world. This year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," emphasized the role of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and active lifestyles throughout life.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the main International Yoga Day event at Red Road in Kolkata, West Bengal, where thousands of participants gathered for a mass yoga session. Similar events were organised in cities, towns and villages across India, while yoga enthusiasts in many countries also took part in celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life. He said that yoga helps individuals maintain physical health, mental strength and overall well-being as they grow older.
The Prime Minister also described yoga as a universal practice that brings people together beyond differences of language, culture, religion and nationality.
According to the Ministry of AYUSH, the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing" was chosen to promote awareness about healthy lifestyles, disease prevention and improved quality of life among people of all age groups.
Yoga Day programmes were organised at thousands of locations across India and abroad, reflecting the continued global acceptance and popularity of yoga as a tool for health and wellness.
International Yoga Day has been observed annually on June 21 since 2015 after the United Nations adopted a proposal introduced by India to recognise yoga as a global movement promoting health, harmony and well-being.
This year's celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from citizens, students, yoga practitioners, community groups and organisations, reinforcing the message of healthy living through yoga and holistic wellness.