30,000 to participate as PM Modi will lead Yoga Day celebrations in Bengal, says Dilip Ghosh
Kolkata, June 19
Ahead of International Yoga Day, West Bengal leader Dilip Ghosh announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting the state to participate in the mega celebrations, which will see the participation of approximately 30,000 people.
West Bengal Minister today participated in the yoga program held in Kolkata.
Highlighting the global appeal of the ancient Indian practice, Ghosh noted that yoga has transcended borders and is now practised in nearly 200 countries.
"Yoga has become very popular; it is practised in 200 countries. There will also be a Yoga Day. The Prime Minister is coming to Bengal this time to participate in Yoga Day celebrations, and we will practice yoga with 30,000 people," Dilip Ghosh said.
The leader further informed that the ground-level promotion for the event has already commenced, with daily practice sessions being organised a week in advance. He emphasised that the objective is to ensure that the message and benefits of yoga reach every household.
"Yoga promotion and practice have begun a week in advance and are happening daily. Efforts are underway to ensure that yoga reaches every home, every person, every household," he added.
Ghosh also revealed a unique highlight for this year's celebrations in the state--a special yoga session on the river.
"This time, there will be a huge event on the Ganga River, where yoga will be practised on a boat," he said.
International Yoga Day, observed annually on June 21, remains a cornerstone of India's soft power diplomacy. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 following a proposal by Prime Minister Modi, the event has since become a global movement.
As in previous years, Indian missions and local leadership across the country are working in coordination to promote the physical and mental health benefits of the practice, with the Ministry of AYUSH leading the national observance.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the enthusiasm, I hope the focus remains on the actual practice of yoga and its health benefits, not just political spectacle. 30,000 people is impressive, but let's ensure quality instruction and safety. Also, the boat yoga sounds risky—hope proper precautions are taken. Still, any promotion of wellness is good.
Yoga on a boat in the Ganga? That's brilliant! But honestly, I hope the local administration manages the crowd well. Kolkata traffic is already chaos—30,000 people will add to it. Still, kudos to Dilip Ghosh for organizing this. Yoga is truly our gift to the world. 🙏
It's inspiring that yoga is now practiced in 200 countries—credit to PM Modi's UN initiative back in 2014. The ground-level promotion with daily sessions for a week is a good move. However, I wish similar efforts were made for other health issues like malnutrition and sanitation. One step at a time, I guess.
Yoga Day has become a global phenomenon, and it's great that Bengal is hosting such a large event. But can we also discuss the irony of promoting yoga while pollution in the Ganga remains a concern? Still, I'll join the session—maybe we can add a pledge to clean the river too!
Honestly, I'm thrilled! Yoga changed my life—helped with my back pain and stress. More people should try it. 30,000 in one place sounds amazing. PM Modi's visit will definitely boost participation. Can't wait for June 21!
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