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Gujarat Welcomes 2026 with Sunrise Yoga: Over 1 Lakh Perform Surya Namaskar

Gujarat ushered in 2026 with a monumental wellness event, as over one lakh citizens performed Surya Namaskar and meditation at the first sunrise. Organized by the Gujarat State Yoga Board, the event featured virtual addresses by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who advocated for health-conscious celebrations over late-night parties. The programme, which highlighted the scientific and cultural significance of yoga, was livestreamed globally, allowing widespread participation and concluding with collective meditation. This initiative underscores a growing movement towards integrating traditional practices for a health-conscious future.

Key Points: Gujarat's 2026 Sunrise: 1 Lakh Do Surya Namaskar & Meditation

  • Massive wellness initiative at sunrise
  • Rejecting blind imitation for Indian traditions
  • Youth embracing health & culture
  • Livestreamed for global participation
2 min read

Gujarat: Over one lakh citizens welcome 2026 with Surya Namaskar and meditation

Over one lakh citizens in Gujarat welcomed 2026 with a massive Surya Namaskar and meditation session at sunrise, promoting health and tradition.

"New Year celebrations should shift from late-night parties to early-morning practices of yoga... - Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi"

Gandhinagar, Jan 1

Gujarat rang in the New Year with a massive wellness initiative as over one lakh citizens performed Surya Namaskar and meditation at the first sunrise of 2026, marking a healthy and auspicious start to the year.

The programme, organised by the Gujarat State Yoga Board, was held under the inspiring virtual presence of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and the Board's Chairman Shishpalsinh.

The "First Sunray Salutation of the New Year" campaign saw participation not only across Gujarat but also from citizens nationwide and abroad. Students, youth, and residents collectively rejected blind imitation of foreign practices, embracing Indian traditions of yoga and solar worship to begin the year on a positive and health-conscious note.

Addressing participants, Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi emphasised that New Year celebrations should shift from late-night parties to early-morning practices of yoga, pranayama, and Surya Namaskar, which promote both physical wellness and mental focus.

He added that the enthusiastic participation of youth indicates growing awareness among Gujarat's new generation about health and cultural values.

The programme was livestreamed on the Gujarat State Yoga Board's YouTube channel, enabling citizens to join from homes, terraces, or nearby gardens. Sessions included detailed explanations of the history of Surya Namaskar, Hanumanji's solar practices, and the scientific benefits of the exercise.

The event concluded with collective meditation, fostering peace, concentration, and mental clarity among participants. To encourage participation, all registered citizens received digital certificates.

Chairman Shishpalsinh thanked government departments, offices, and citizens for their support in making the programme a success.

The campaign lays a strong foundation for a health-conscious, disease-free future in Gujarat, highlighting the state's commitment to promoting wellness, tradition, and cultural pride.

Yoga plays a vital role in promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being, serving as a holistic approach to health.

Regular practice strengthens the body, improves flexibility, and boosts immunity, while techniques like pranayama and meditation reduce stress, enhance focus, and cultivate emotional balance.

Beyond personal wellness, yoga fosters mindfulness, discipline, and self-awareness, helping individuals manage lifestyle-related disorders and build resilience against modern-day challenges.

By integrating body, mind, and breath, yoga not only enhances overall health but also encourages a harmonious and balanced way of living, making it an essential practice in today's fast-paced world.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Aman W
This is a fantastic initiative. Starting the year with health and peace is much better than with a hangover. Hope other states also promote such programmes. The digital certificate is a nice touch to encourage participation.
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Rohit P
I participated from my terrace in Ahmedabad! The livestream was very well organized. Feeling so positive and focused for 2026. Jai Gujarat! 🙏
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Sarah B
While promoting yoga is excellent, the article's tone about "rejecting blind imitation of foreign practices" feels a bit pointed. Can't we appreciate our traditions without putting down other ways of celebrating? The wellness message is strong enough on its own.
K
Karthik V
This is the real "New Year resolution" we need. Yoga and meditation are gifts from our ancient culture to the modern world. Proud to see Gujarat leading by example. The scientific benefits explained were very informative.
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Nisha Z
My whole family joined in from Surat, including my 10-year-old. It's a beautiful practice to share. More such community events, please! It builds a great habit and a sense of togetherness.

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