West Bengal embraces International Yoga Day spirit across statewide urban, rural venues
Kolkata, June 21
As thousands gathered at Kolkata's iconic Red Road for the national celebration of International Yoga Day on Sunday, the spirit of the event resonated across West Bengal, with yoga sessions being organised at more than 250 locations throughout the state.
From educational institutions to community grounds and public spaces, people from all walks of life participated in the statewide observance in large numbers.
Across urban centres and rural areas alike, citizens also joined early-morning sessions led by trained instructors, performing various asanas and breathing exercises.
Earlier in the day, the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata hosted the 12th International Day of Yoga 2026 celebrations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga, performing yoga asanas alongside thousands of people at Kolkata's Red Road and asserting that yoga has the power to unite the entire world.
Addressing the gathering after participating in the mass yoga session, PM Modi said, "The entire nation, world, seems connected. This is the power of yoga. Yoga connects everyone, brings everyone together. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the entire world, to the entire human community on International Yoga Day."
Mohun Bagan Club President Debasish Dutta and Executive Committee Member Sohini Mitra Choubey also participated in the event.
Speaking to ANI, Mohun Bagan Athletic Club executive committee member Sohini Mitra Chaubey noted that the International Yoga Day has gained significant importance in West Bengal since the BJP government took office in the state.
Mohun Bagan Club President Debasis Dutta praised the initiative, stating that the call for collective participation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari inspired people to participate in the Yoga Day celebrations.
International Yoga Day is observed annually on June 21, following a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014 after a proposal by Prime Minister Modi. According to the United Nations, 2026 marks the 12th year of International Yoga Day.
The theme for this year's observance is "Yoga for Healthy Ageing", which highlights the role of yoga in helping people remain active, independent and engaged across all age groups.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, the way PM Modi has popularised yoga globally is amazing. Seeing it celebrated at Eden Gardens and across 250 venues in Bengal is a testament to its universal appeal. Yoga truly connects body, mind and spirit. 🌿
While I support yoga, I feel the article is making it too political. Why mention BJP taking office in Bengal? Yoga is not owned by any party. My grandparents in Murshidabad have been doing surya namaskar since before it was trendy. The real power of yoga goes beyond any government or event.
Yoga for healthy ageing is a wonderful choice for this year. As someone in my 60s, I can vouch that 20 minutes of pranayama every morning has kept my joints flexible and mind sharp. The fact that Bengal's rural areas are also participating shows how yoga bridges the urban-rural divide. Accha laga dekh ke!
Interesting to see such massive participation in Bengal. I'm from the US but lived in Kolkata for a few years. The energy at these events is infectious. Yoga is truly a gift India has given to the world. Namaste from across the pond! 🙏
I'm a bit skeptical about the numbers—were there really people at all 250 locations? Living in a small village in Bankura, I didn't see any big yoga event nearby. But if it is true, then kudos to everyone involved. Just wish the hype matched the ground reality in more remote areas.
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