12th International Yoga Day Celebrated in Rajasthan; CM Bhajan Lal Sharma Highlights Yoga’s Global Role in Human Welfare

Jaipur, June 2026: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Sunday participated in the state-level celebrations of the 12th International Yoga Day at Abu Raj in Sirohi district, describing yoga as a global instrument for human welfare and a powerful force for personal, social, and national development.

The event was organised on the scenic banks of Nakki Lake amid the Aravalli hills, where the Chief Minister joined public representatives, government officials, and citizens in performing yoga. Participants also listened to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address delivered from Kolkata as part of the nationwide celebrations marking International Yoga Day.

Extending his greetings on the occasion, Sharma said that Abu Raj, nestled in the sacred Aravalli range, is a land of spirituality and a unique confluence of cultural heritage, nature, and inner peace. He noted that the region’s clean environment, greenery, and spiritual atmosphere perfectly reflect the essence of yoga.

The Chief Minister said India has successfully linked yoga with the concept of Karma Yoga, significantly enhancing the capacity of individuals, society, and the nation to achieve progress and development. He remarked that yoga has evolved into a global mass movement and continues to unite people across geographical and cultural boundaries.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Sharma said yoga connects the body, mind, intellect, and soul while also serving as a bridge that brings the world together. He added that India’s ancient yoga tradition has now emerged as a universal medium for promoting the well-being of humanity.

Highlighting this year’s International Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” the Chief Minister said the message underscores that yoga is not limited to the younger generation. Instead, it serves as a powerful tool for older individuals, helping them remain physically active, mentally balanced, and emotionally resilient as they age.

Sharma credited Prime Minister Modi’s global outreach and diplomatic efforts for securing international recognition for yoga. He recalled that in 2014, Modi introduced the concept of International Yoga Day at the United Nations General Assembly, leading to the adoption of June 21 as International Yoga Day. According to Sharma, the recognition reflects global respect for India’s cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, and leadership on the world stage.

The Chief Minister also highlighted key milestones in the growth of yoga celebrations. He noted that the first International Yoga Day, observed on June 21, 2015, saw a world-record participation of 35,985 people performing yoga together alongside the Prime Minister.

Rajasthan, he said, has carved out a special place in promoting yoga. In 2018, Kota entered the Guinness World Records when more than 1.05 lakh people participated in a mass yoga session. He further pointed out that in 2025, Rajasthan ranked first in the country with more than 85 lakh registrations on the Yoga Sangam portal.

During the programme, Sharma administered a pledge to participants, urging them to remain committed to mental stability, self-development, dedication to duty, and the promotion of peace, happiness, and health in society and across the world.

As a symbolic gesture, white balloons were released to spread the message of global peace and a healthy Rajasthan.

The event was attended by Panchayati Raj Minister Ota Ram Devasi, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce K.K. Vishnoi, Members of Parliament Madan Rathore and Lumbaram Choudhary, MLA Samaram, Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, along with several other public representatives, officials, and citizens who participated enthusiastically in the yoga session.