Yoga is India's tradition, identity for healthier life, say BJP leaders as Kolkata hosts massive event
New Delhi, June 21
Kolkata witnessed large-scale celebrations on the 12th International Day of Yoga 2026, with a massive event at Red Road and a unique riverfront gathering organised on around 100 floating platforms along the Ganga near Millennium Park.
The event became one of the key highlights of the day in West Bengal, drawing participation from citizens, yoga practitioners, and political leaders, and marking the presence and participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the national-level observance.
Across the city, multiple yoga sessions were organised as part of the celebrations, reflecting a coordinated effort to promote yoga as a daily wellness practice.
West Bengal Minister Deepak Burman said, "Yoga is an important day. It is part of India's tradition and cultural heritage, and is also an identity for a healthier life. Today, we have gathered together for yoga..."
Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon highlighted yoga's historical roots and its renewed promotion in contemporary times, stating, "This has been going on since our ancestors. It is Prime Minister Modi who is reintroducing it again. This is our culture. Slowly, it is being done to influence the younger generation, and this is a very good thing..."
BJP MP Khagen Murmu expressed appreciation for the scale of the event and the Prime Minister's participation, saying, "This is a very big thing. Today, on Yoga Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is here, so I am very happy. On behalf of the public, I express my gratitude to the Prime Minister..."
Minister Dilip Ghosh said the occasion marked an important milestone for the state's participation in global Yoga Day celebrations, stating, "For the last 12 years, Yoga Day has been celebrated across the world... This time it is being officially organised in West Bengal, which is a very big thing for us, and since the Prime Minister is personally present here, it is a very important day for Bengal..."
BJP MLA Ritesh Tiwari described the Kolkata event as historic due to both its scale and the Prime Minister's involvement, stating, "This is a very historic day for Kolkata. Today, on this Yoga Day, along with a change in governance, yoga is being held in Kolkata city, and the Prime Minister himself is present there. In such a situation, we have had the good fortune to get an opportunity to be part of it, so it is definitely a different kind of joy."
Officials and organisers noted that the floating yoga arrangement on the Ganga was designed to highlight both innovation and tradition, symbolising the connection between India's cultural heritage and modern public wellness initiatives. The event concluded with mass yoga demonstrations and coordinated participation across multiple venues in Kolkata.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see such massive participation across Kolkata. Yoga is indeed our gift to the world. But I hope the government also focuses on making yoga accessible in rural areas, not just city events.
As someone from outside India, I'm fascinated by how deeply yoga is woven into your culture. Seeing PM Modi participate adds to the global appeal. Maybe one day we'll have similar events in my country too!
While I appreciate the enthusiasm, I wish we would promote yoga as a universal health practice rather than always linking it to political figures. Let yoga speak for itself—it's powerful enough. Just my honest opinion.
The Red Road event looked spectacular in the news! As a yoga teacher abroad, I'm inspired by your community spirit. Yoga is for everyone—this is a beautiful showcase of India's heritage.
Finally a proper event in West Bengal celebrating Yoga Day! The floating arrangement is unique and eco-friendly. I just hope the enthusiasm continues beyond one day and becomes part of our daily routine. 🇮🇳
Impressive turnout and organization. It's great seeing the younger generation embracing these traditional practices. I watched the livestream from New York—truly a global event now!
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