India to Host First World Yogasana Championship in 2026

India is gearing up to host the inaugural World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad from June 4-8, 2026, with participation from over 40 countries. This event aims to elevate Yogasana as a recognized competitive sport on the global stage, potentially paving the way for its inclusion in the Olympics. The championship will showcase top athletes and promote India's yogic heritage, marking a significant milestone in the global Yogasana movement. With rigorous selection trials already conducted, the excitement is building for this landmark event.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 02:18 IST

Inaugural World Yogasana Championship Set for Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], May 7: Marking a pivotal moment for the global Yogasana movement, India is preparing to host the first-ever World Yogasana Championship from June 4 to June 8, 2026, at TransStadia in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This event is expected to attract participants from over 40 nations.

Organized by World Yogasana and hosted by Yogasana Bharat, the championship aims to unite top athletes worldwide, reinforcing India's leadership in promoting Yogasana as a competitive sport, as stated in a recent press release.

The initiative aims to create momentum for the sport's inclusion in international multi-sport events, with a strong possibility of it becoming an Olympic discipline.

In preparation for the championship, selection trials for the Indian National Yogasana Team were held on May 1 and 2, 2026, at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Sonepat, Haryana.

Athletes competed in various categories, including Traditional, Artistic, Rhythmic, and Athletic Yogasana. Those selected will attend a National Coaching Camp at the Naranpura Sports Complex (SAI NCOE) in Ahmedabad from May 10 to June 2.

Udit Sheth, President of Yogasana Bharat, expressed, “Hosting the inaugural World Yogasana Sports Championship is a landmark achievement for the sport. Our vision, supported by our Hon'ble PM, is to introduce Yoga to the youth globally through Yogasana, aiming for its presence in numerous multi-sport events and potentially the Olympics. We have established a robust competitive framework, and Yogasana is now poised for the global arena. India is honored to spearhead this initiative. Yogasana serves as a pathway to the Yoga lifestyle.”

Dr. Jaideep Arya, Secretary General of World Yogasana and Yogasana Bharat, shared his excitement about the championship, stating, “The participation and talent displayed during the national trials in Sonepat reflect the significant growth of Yogasana in India. This championship will offer athletes an international platform, further enhancing the sport's global recognition and development.”

Globally recognized and governed by World Yogasana, this sport combines the principles of yoga with competitive athleticism. Judging criteria include precision, balance, flexibility, control, stability, and difficulty level, all under standardized regulations.

With athletes, officials, and federations from around the world expected to gather in Ahmedabad this June, the championship is set to be a remarkable celebration of sporting excellence and India's rich yogic heritage.