Yoga is a Panacea for Keeping Diseases at Bay: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, June 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday highlighted the importance of yoga in combating lifestyle-related diseases, describing it as a “panacea” for maintaining physical and mental well-being. He urged people to make yoga a regular part of their daily routine to lead healthier and more balanced lives.

Speaking at the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations held near the Food Court at Juhu Beach in Mumbai, the Chief Minister said that changing lifestyles have led to a rise in various health problems, making yoga more relevant than ever.

“Due to changes in our way of life, the incidence of diseases has increased significantly. Yoga is an effective remedy to prevent and manage such ailments. By practising yoga regularly, people can protect themselves from lifestyle-related disorders and improve their overall quality of life,” Fadnavis said.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Prof. Ram Shinde, Member of Parliament Ravindra Waikar, MLA Amit Satam, Shivprakash, Keshav Upadhye, Pawan Tripathi, Deepti Waikar, and Usha Ben, among others.

Emphasising yoga’s role beyond physical fitness, the Chief Minister noted that consistent practice helps individuals develop mental resilience and the ability to face challenges with confidence.

“A person who practises yoga regularly can successfully overcome difficulties and remain composed even in stressful situations. Yoga strengthens both the body and the mind, enabling individuals to deal with life’s challenges more effectively,” he said.

Fadnavis called for greater promotion and awareness of yoga, encouraging citizens to adopt it as a lifelong habit. “Let us commit ourselves to practising yoga regularly so that we can keep our bodies healthy and our minds peaceful,” he added.

Reflecting on yoga’s growing global recognition, the Chief Minister recalled India’s successful initiative at the United Nations to establish June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.

He pointed out that the proposal was approved by the UN in record time and without any opposition, making it one of the most widely supported resolutions in the organisation’s history.

“Today, yoga is being practised across the world because people have recognised its immense benefits for physical and mental health. Interest in yogic science and yoga therapy has grown tremendously at the global level,” he said.

Fadnavis further explained that yoga is based on a holistic understanding of human existence. According to him, a person is not merely a physical body but also possesses a mind and a soul, all of which must remain in harmony.

“Human beings are deeply connected with nature. Yoga does not focus only on the body; it seeks to establish balance among the body, mind and soul. It revives the relationship between the mind and the natural elements, helping individuals achieve inner peace and emotional stability,” he said.

The Chief Minister noted that regular yoga practice not only improves physical health but also enhances mental strength and emotional well-being. He stressed that its benefits extend far beyond exercise, making it a comprehensive system for personal development and wellness.

During the programme, Shivprakash also addressed the gathering and shared his views on the significance of yoga. The event concluded with Chief Minister Fadnavis participating in various yoga postures alongside yoga instructors and hundreds of yoga enthusiasts who had gathered to mark the occasion.

Team Maverick.