PM Modi Leads International Yoga Day Celebrations in Kolkata, Calls for Yoga to Become a Way of Life

Kolkata/New Delhi, June 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday led the nationwide celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga from Kolkata’s historic Red Road, urging citizens to embrace yoga as an integral part of their daily lives rather than limiting it to an annual observance.

Addressing a massive gathering of yoga practitioners, students, officials, and citizens, the Prime Minister said the occasion was not merely a celebration but an opportunity for people to renew their commitment to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle through yoga.

“On International Yoga Day, millions of people across the world connect with yoga. But this day should also inspire us to take a collective pledge. Let us not limit yoga to just one day or one programme in a year. We must make yoga a permanent part of our lives,” PM Modi said.

He stressed that yoga should become a family tradition passed down from one generation to the next. Referring to the government’s “Yoga 365” initiative, he said the effort aims to encourage people to practise yoga throughout the year and integrate it into their everyday routines.

“When society is healthy, the nation becomes stronger, more prosperous, and more self-confident. With this spirit, I pray, ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah’—may all be happy and free from illness,” he added.

This year’s International Day of Yoga was observed under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” highlighting the role of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, emotional balance, and active ageing. The Prime Minister emphasised that yoga can help people maintain their health and vitality irrespective of age.

Explaining the significance of the theme, PM Modi said, “When we speak about ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’, it means ensuring that growing older does not reduce human potential. Yoga enables individuals to continue evolving and growing throughout life. Our goal should be to remain more flexible and healthier at 40 than we were at 20.”

Drawing inspiration from India’s ancient spiritual traditions, the Prime Minister quoted a verse from the Bhagavad Gita that highlights the importance of moderation and balance in daily life.

“In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says, ‘Yuktahara-viharasya yukta-cheshtasya karmasu, yukta-svapnavabodhasya yogo bhavati duhkha-ha.’ This means that balanced eating habits, disciplined actions, and proper sleep and wakefulness help yoga become a path to overcoming suffering,” he said.

PM Modi also extended his greetings to people across the country and specifically appreciated the efforts of Kolkata residents in promoting cleanliness and yoga awareness.

Around 35,000 participants joined the Prime Minister in performing the Common Yoga Protocol at the Red Road venue, creating one of the largest yoga gatherings in the country. Simultaneously, yoga sessions were organised across Kolkata, with nearly 10 lakh people expected to participate in coordinated events throughout the city.

Since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014 following India’s proposal, International Yoga Day has evolved into a global movement promoting wellness, mindfulness, and holistic health. Celebrated annually on June 21, the event continues to attract participation from millions of people worldwide.

The 2026 celebrations once again underscored yoga’s universal appeal and reinforced its growing role in fostering healthier lifestyles, stronger communities, and greater harmony across nations.

Team Maverick.