Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday encouraged people to make Yoga an integral part of their daily routine, saying the ancient practice plays a vital role in maintaining physical fitness, mental well-being and long-term health.
Leading the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations at Kolkata’s Red Road, PM Modi addressed a large gathering of participants and highlighted Yoga’s growing global reach. He said June 21 has evolved into a worldwide occasion that brings people together through a shared commitment to wellness.
The Prime Minister noted that regular Yoga practice can help individuals remain active and productive as they age. He said adopting Yoga within families can contribute to healthier lifestyles across generations, adding that people who practise consistently can maintain greater vitality later in life.
Reflecting on Bengal’s contribution to the spread of Yoga, PM Modi recalled the role of Swami Vivekananda in introducing Indian spiritual and philosophical traditions to an international audience. He referred to Vivekananda’s address in 1893 and said the monk had described Yoga as a path towards liberation, joy and self-development. According to the Prime Minister, Yoga remains deeply connected to Bengal’s cultural heritage.
PM Modi also stressed that Yoga should not be viewed solely as a personal health practice. He said it has a wider role in shaping a stronger society and a better future, urging citizens not to restrict Yoga to annual celebrations or special occasions.
Speaking about the principles associated with Yoga, the Prime Minister referred to teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, stating that a balanced approach to food, work and sleep is essential for leading a healthy and fulfilling life.
Later, PM Modi shared photographs and videos from the event on the social media platform X, stating that Yoga contributes to both physical wellness and inner peace.
Here are some more glimpses from the Yoga Day programme held in Kolkata. pic.twitter.com/XgE1G7sfHB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 21, 2026
Chief Minister’s Remarks
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari was also present at the programme.
Addressing the gathering, CM Adhikari said Yoga has historic roots in Bengal and claimed that efforts previously sought to distance the practice from everyday life in the state.
Without elaborating on those developments, the Chief Minister said this year’s celebrations reflected a new public enthusiasm for Yoga in West Bengal. He expressed confidence that more than one crore people across the state would take part in International Yoga Day activities.
The event concluded with a mass Yoga session at Red Road, where both PM Modi and Chief Minister Adhikari joined participants in performing Yoga exercises as part of the nationwide observance.
Also Read: International Yoga Day: PM Modi Calls For Daily Yoga Practice In Kolkata
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