Bhopal June 21, 2026

The 12th International Day of Yoga was marked with large public participation across India and several countries on Sunday, as people gathered in parks, public grounds, schools and community spaces to celebrate the ancient practice under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The day saw leaders, students, senior citizens, government employees and ordinary citizens come together with a common message — making yoga a part of everyday life for better physical and mental well-being.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations from Kolkata’s historic Red Road, where thousands joined a mass yoga session in the early morning hours. Sharing his thoughts later, the Prime Minister said the programme reflected the growing place of yoga in people’s lives and its role in promoting health and vitality.

In Madhya Pradesh, the occasion carried a special significance as President Droupadi Murmu participated in the state-level celebration at Jabalpur during her ongoing visit to the state. The programme at Garrison Ground brought together people from different backgrounds and age groups. Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also joined the session.

As the morning unfolded, yoga mats spread across the ground. School children sat in neat rows. Elderly participants moved through the exercises at their own pace. Families arrived together. Many participants said the event gave them an opportunity to pause from their daily routine and focus on health and fitness. The scene was similar in Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Sagar and other towns, where community yoga sessions drew enthusiastic participation. In several places, people turned up before sunrise. In others, local organisations and institutions coordinated programmes that blended yoga practice with awareness about healthy living.

President Murmu used the occasion to encourage citizens to make yoga a regular part of their lives. She said the choices people make today shape their future health and happiness. According to her, yoga helps individuals remain active and independent as they age while also supporting emotional balance and mental peace. The theme of healthy ageing found resonance among many participants. While yoga has long been associated with flexibility and fitness, this year’s focus highlighted its role in helping people maintain an active lifestyle through different stages of life. Senior citizens formed a visible presence at many events, reflecting the theme in practice rather than words.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav described yoga as a timeless contribution of India’s ancient knowledge tradition. He said yoga creates harmony between the body, mind and soul and helps build a healthier society. He also virtually connected with the national programme in Kolkata and called upon people to adopt yoga as a daily habit.

The celebrations extended beyond official venues. In residential colonies, local parks and neighbourhood grounds, small groups organised their own sessions. Some participants practised with family members, while others joined community events for the first time. The common thread was a simple belief that a few minutes devoted to yoga each day can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

In Vijayawada, yoga guru Baba Ramdev said yoga remains relevant in an increasingly stressful world and urged people to practice it regularly. As the sun rose higher on International Yoga Day, the focus remained less on ceremonies and more on participation. Across cities, towns and villages, people stepped onto yoga mats and into open spaces, turning a global observance into a personal commitment towards healthier living.

Meanwhile, President Murmu will continue her Madhya Pradesh visit on Monday with a scheduled visit to Kuno National Park before concluding her tour of the state.