Celebrating Yoga: Union Minister Encourages Daily Practice on International Day of Yoga

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations in New Delhi, urging citizens to integrate yoga into their daily lives. With over 3,000 participants, including Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, the event emphasized the theme 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing.' Mandaviya highlighted yoga's cultural significance and its role in promoting health and well-being. The celebrations were part of a nationwide initiative, with simultaneous events across various institutions. Prime Minister Modi also participated in Kolkata, showcasing yoga's unifying power. This day marks a significant global wellness movement, with India leading the charge in promoting holistic health.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2026, 15:58 IST

Promoting Yoga for a Healthier Lifestyle

On Sunday, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized the importance of incorporating yoga into daily routines, calling it a significant contribution from India to the world. He led the celebrations for the 12th International Day of Yoga at New Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The event saw participation from over 3,000 individuals who engaged in a mass yoga session themed 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing.' Bollywood star Akshay Kumar joined Mandaviya and other participants in performing yoga.

Yoga: A Cultural Heritage

During his address, Mandaviya underscored the cultural and global importance of yoga, urging everyone to adopt it as a daily practice. He stated, 'Yoga is our culture and our nature. While the world sought peace, India offered Lord Buddha. In times of health challenges, our sages presented yoga to humanity. It is not just our heritage but a gift to the world. Therefore, as the world celebrates Yoga Day on June 21, we should all practice yoga daily to maintain our mental and physical well-being.'

Nationwide Yoga Celebrations

This event was part of the Sports Ministry's broader initiative for International Yoga Day, with simultaneous yoga sessions held at various Sports Authority of India (SAI) Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, SAI Training Centres, and Khelo India institutions throughout the nation.

Focus on Healthy Ageing

The theme for this year's International Day of Yoga, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing,' highlights the growing global emphasis on active lifestyles and enhancing quality of life for all age groups. With an increase in lifestyle-related diseases, the focus is shifting towards promoting overall health and longevity.

PM Modi's Participation in Kolkata

Earlier that day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations from Kolkata's Red Road, practicing yoga alongside thousands of participants, showcasing yoga's power to bring people together across cultures.

A Global Movement for Wellness

Over the last decade, the International Day of Yoga has transformed into one of the largest wellness movements globally, with India at the forefront of promoting holistic health, preventive care, and sustainable living.