Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman joined Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in observing Yoga Day at the Brahmaputra riverfront here on Sunday.

The Union minister has been in the northeastern region for the past four days on various official engagements.

At the yoga session held at the Brahmaputra riverfront, state Cabinet ministers Ajanta Neog and Ashok Singhal, along with people from various walks of life, were present besides Sitharaman and Sarma. "Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga at the Brahmaputra Riverfront in Guwahati, Assam," her office said in a post on X.

"This year's theme is 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', which emphasises the importance of yoga for all ages. It highlights the need to enhance not only lifespan but also 'healthspan', i.e. the period of life spent in good health," it added.

Some glimpses from the event. https://t.co/Mg0ME6DFBr pic.twitter.com/wueq53rQmf

— Nirmala Sitharaman Office (@nsitharamanoffc) June 21, 2026

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi on Sunday attended the 12th International Day of Yoga event in Dhaka, joining hundreds of participants celebrating yoga's growing reach across the country.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from yoga practitioners, wellness organisations, and the public. Attendees said the annual observance has become more popular and widespread in Bangladesh over the years.

While speaking to ANI, an attendee said, "Happy Yoga Day. I am participating in this event with a lot of excitement, goodwill, and best wishes for everybody. I have been participating in this event with lots of excitement for several years, and yes, it's a good feeling. So we were quite expecting to gather a lot of people, get more knowledge and awareness about this Yoga Day, and yes, of course, it is a very significant event for us. Day by day, it is getting more popular and more widespread in Bangladesh, not just in Dhaka, but also across the whole world," she said.

Another participant, a yoga Instructor, marking his 6th year at the event, highlighted yoga's holistic benefits, and advised that one must do Yoga for at least 15-20 minutes a day for good health.

"I have been participating in Yoga Day for the last 6 years. So today is the International Yoga Day, and I wish you all the best. Yoga, you know, it's a holistic approach. Every human being needs to do yoga daily, not only for health but also for the mind and soul. So yoga connects body, mind and soul. If you want to live a healthy and happy life, you have to do yoga daily. At least 15 minutes to 20 minutes pranayama, yoga asana and meditation, also," he told ANI.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led the 12th International Yoga Day event in Kolkata on Sunday, appreciated the participation of people from "all walks of life" while also emphasising the theme 'Yoga For Healthy Ageing'.

In a post on X, PM Modi said: "An exceptional Yoga Day programme was held at Kolkata's Red Road this morning, in which people from all walks of life participated, giving an important message on the vitality of Yoga in everyone's lives."

"This time, the theme was 'Yoga For Healthy Ageing' which emphasised the importance of Yoga in all ages to remain fit and healthy," he added.

While addressing the event earlier in the morning, PM Modi urged people across the country to adopt yoga as a part of their daily lives, stressing that it promotes healthy living, a healthy mind, and long-term well-being.

"I feel so happy that the people of Kolkata today have overwhelmingly participated in that global festival. Remember, Yoga ensures that ageing does not impact the working potential of human beings. So, if you adopt Yoga as part of your daily life and also a part of your family, at your fifties you will feel as if you are in your thirties and in your seventies you will feel that you are in your forties," the Prime Minister said.

(IANS)

Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Sunday called upon people to embrace yoga to build a healthy and empowered society.

He extended wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of International Yoga Day.

"Yoga is an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition of knowledge, which forms the foundation of a healthy body, a peaceful mind, and a balanced life. Let us resolve to embrace yoga and build a healthy, aware, and empowered society," Gangwar posted on social media.

(PTI)

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Sunday participated in the 12th International Yoga Day celebrations organised at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore.

The event highlights the importance of yoga for a healthy lifestyle and holistic well-being, aligning with this year's theme of enhancing healthspan alongside lifespan.

The celebration, beginning with the Vande Mataram song, has brought together students, faculty, and the public to embrace yoga as a way of life for harmony, balance, and inner peace.

(PTI)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday participated in a yoga session in Ahmedabad on the 12th International Day of Yoga, joining people in celebrating the annual event dedicated to promoting physical and mental well-being.

The International Day of Yoga this year is being observed under the theme, "Yoga For Healthy Ageing," highlighting the role of yoga in ensuring a healthier and more active life across all age groups.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also took part in a yoga programme organised in Mansa as part of the nationwide celebrations marking the day.

આજના અવસરે, માનનીય પ્રધાનમંત્રી શ્રી નરેન્દ્રભાઈ મોદી પણ પશ્ચિમ બંગાળથી સામૂહિક યોગાભ્યાસમાં જોડાયા હતા. તેઓશ્રીના પ્રેરક વક્તવ્યનું જીવંત પ્રસારણ પણ માણસા ખાતે નિહાળ્યું.
આપણી સનાતન પ્રાચીન યોગ સંસ્કૃતિને વિશ્વભરમાં ગરિમાપૂર્ણ સ્વીકૃતિ અપાવનાર માનનીય મોદીજીના સુશાસનના પણ સફળ… pic.twitter.com/a5dLSSn4l5

— Bhupendra Patel (@Bhupendrapbjp) June 21, 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis marked the 12th International Day of Yoga in Mumbai, highlighting the "Yoga For Healthy Ageing" theme by joining others in the celebrations on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for globalising the practice, encouraging the adoption of yoga to manage stress and maintain health.

"I wish everyone a very happy International Day of Yoga. We all know that Yoga Vidya is a part of our ancient way of life...I thank our Prime Minister that due to him, Yoga Day is being celebrated in every country of the world, and I would appeal to all of us that the kind of stress and challenges that we have in our lives today, if we want to stay healthy in these stresses and challenges, then only Yogasana and Yoga Vidya can keep us fit and healthy," he said.

(ANI)

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.

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."

(IANS)

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday led the yoga day celebrations in Srinagar and noted that it was helpful in maintaining both physical and mental health.

Addressing the gathering at SKICC on the banks of Dal Lake here, he said it guides us toward a more holistic realm of health and happiness.

"This year's Yoga Day theme is 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'. With rising stress and modern health challenges, Yoga offers a powerful ray of hope. Let's take a step toward wellness today by participating and committing to a healthier lifestyle," Sinha said.

He urged the people of Jammu Kashmir to actively participate in yoga events and champion the movement toward a healthier lifestyle.

(PTI)

Thousands of enthusiasts participated on Sunday in the 12th International Yoga Day events at several places in Chandigarh and across Haryana and Punjab to stay fit and improve flexibility.

In Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, the main event was held at the Tiranga Urban Park in Sector 17, where a large number of people turned up early in the morning.

Punjab Governor and Union Territory Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria joined people to improve their flexibility.

In Haryana, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini led his Cabinet colleagues and government functionaries at the main event in Panchkula town, near here.

A majority of ministers attended the functions to mark the day at all district headquarters.

(IANS)

From high-altitude mountains to parade grounds in the plains, a large number of armed forces personnel took part in yoga sessions across the country to mark International Day of Yoga on Sunday.

All military commands of the three services -- the Army, Navy and the Air Force -- have been gearing up for this annual event, which seeks to promote physical fitness, mental resilience and holistic well-being.

In the national capital, the Indian Army is hosting the event at the Cariappa Parade Ground at Delhi Cantonment.

Army jawans and others, positioned in a huge grid formation, stretched their arms and legs to perform various 'asanas'.

(PTI)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday performed Yoga on the occasion of the 12th International Day of Yoga in Jhansi.

He was felicitated with a sapling on stage at the International Day of Yoga event organised at the Jhansi Fort Ground.

Speaking on the occasion, Yogi Adityanath said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts gave global recognition to India's traditions and heritage through the International Day of Yoga.

"We are all grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has given global recognition to India's traditions and heritage, and has presented a vision for all of us, enabling 140 crore Indians to move forward with pride in the world, and to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat," he said.

"You must have seen that the Prime Minister himself visits different states every year to take these International Yoga Day events to new heights of success. It is my good fortune that this year I have the opportunity to join you all in this International Yoga Day event on this historic ground in Jhansi," he added.

(ANI)

From its deep roots in ancient India, yoga has become truly universal, helping millions of people of all faiths & cultures find calm, build strength & live with purpose.
It teaches us mindfulness, respect & care for ourselves, for our planet & for one another.
On this #YogaDay,…

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) June 20, 2026

Celebrating the International Yoga Day at Eastern Air Command in Shillong. I urge everyone to make Yoga an integral part of their lives. https://t.co/DrVNyhMocz

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 21, 2026

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Sunday described yoga as India's timeless gift to the world and urged people to embrace the practice for a healthier, happier and more mindful society.

Singh joined Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and hundreds of participants in observing the 12th International Day of Yoga at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium here.

The Chief Minister also watched the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address from Kolkata's Red Road.

Joined people across Manipur in celebrating the 12th International Day of Yoga under the theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
Yoga, India’s timeless gift to the world, promotes physical well-being, mental resilience, and inner harmony. Let us embrace this practice and work towards… pic.twitter.com/ZRQzKmd1xj

— Khemchand Yumnam (@YKhemchandSingh) June 20, 2026

From Texas parks and New York's Times Square to state legislatures and governors' offices, International Day of Yoga was celebrated across the United States this weekend, reflecting the growing mainstream acceptance of a practice that originated in India and has evolved into a nationwide wellness movement.

This year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," focused on preventive healthcare, active living and mental well-being.

More than a decade after the United Nations designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, the observance is now marked across the United States in parks, universities, community centres, public squares and government institutions. Yoga is practiced by tens of millions of Americans and has become one of the most visible examples of India's cultural influence in the country.

One of the largest celebrations on Saturday took place in Sugar Land, Texas, where Consul General D.C. Manjunath joined Mayor Carol McCutcheon at Brazos River Park for an event organised by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and Hindu Yuva. The gathering brought together residents, elected officials and yoga enthusiasts for outdoor yoga sessions and wellness activities.

(IANS)

#WATCH | West Bengal | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "...In India, from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, from the Northeast and Bengal in the east to Saurashtra in the west, the entire country seems to be filled with the energy of yoga"
(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/MyUKOzu613

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "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… pic.twitter.com/wD9rRYWsSq

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "It is very special to be in Bengal today on the occasion of Yoga Day. The sacred land of Bengal, where saints like Ramakrishna Paramahamsa descended, Swami Vivekananda introduced yoga to the entire world from… pic.twitter.com/Ve5xZwae0X

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: On the 12th International Day of Yoga, Union Health Minister JP Nadda says, "... The Prime Minister has done a great service to humanity by bringing yoga to the global level and has made a huge contribution in giving a new direction to humanity and the decision of… pic.twitter.com/I49YHOUXiD

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

When we speak of Yoga for healthy ageing, it means that we can work to ensure that age doesn't reduce human potential. Yoga can help human life aspire for constant growth. Our target must be to be more flexible at 40 than we were at 20. Our target must be more energetic at 50… pic.twitter.com/5toD32Nojk

— BJP (@BJP4India) June 21, 2026

President Droupadi Murmu will perform yoga at the historic Garrison Ground in Jabalpur on Sunday marking International Yoga Day. This will be the first time a sitting President of India participates in a yoga event at this iconic venue, adding a golden chapter to its illustrious history.

President Murmu is currently on a five-day official visit to Madhya Pradesh. On Sunday, she will lead the yoga session at Garrison Ground. The following day, June 22, she is scheduled to visit Kuno National Park in Sheopur district.

The Garrison Ground, located in the Sadar area, derives its name from the British-era military cantonment. During colonial rule, the Sadar area became a major hub for military activities, and the ground naturally came to be known as 'Garrison Ground'.

From physical wellness to inner peace, yoga enriches every aspect of life. Delighted to join this year’s celebrations in Kolkata. https://t.co/75UZECw8JR

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 21, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: EAM Dr S Jaishankar performs Yoga at Nehru Park on the 12th annual International Day of Yoga.
Ambassador of Norway to India, May-Elin Stener, also participates in the event. pic.twitter.com/krb7nJ9ec6

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

#WATCH | Leh, Ladakh | 47th Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police celebrate the 12th annual Internation Day of Yoga by practicing on the banks of Pangong Tso.
(Source: ITBP) pic.twitter.com/Dvft56YqeG

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

Kolkata’s iconic Howrah Bridge shines in the colours of the Tricolour on the eve of International Yoga Day 2026.
A symbol of India’s enduring spirit and unity, the illuminated landmark stands as a reminder of the timeless wisdom of yoga that continues to inspire millions across… pic.twitter.com/IhCoDWKbie

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) June 20, 2026

#WATCH | Vijayawada | Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu arrives at the 12th annual International Day of Yoga celebrations at an event led by Yog Guru Baba Ramdev and organised at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Labbipet. pic.twitter.com/qovGpLS5kF

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2026

In celebration of the International Day of Yoga, Bollywood actors Suniel Shetty and Neil Nitin Mukesh underscored the significance of yoga in one's physical as well as mental development.

Speaking to ANI, Suniel Shetty explained how people of all ages can embrace the practice of yoga.

"It is very important to be consistent to stay fit. Whatever you do, it is very important to do it on a daily basis. Sometimes yoga can feel very boring. But it is all about breathing, stretching, and about life. For a Longer life or weight loss, only breathing can help you. Pranayams help you, your asanas help you. It is not limited to any certain age. Yoga is equally important for kids to build patience, breathing, and control anxiety or depression," Shetty said.

Likewise, actor Neil Nitin Mukesh emphasised the importance of mental fitness.

"I believe fitness starts with yourself. If you believe in fitness, then it is very important to be mentally fit, and it is very important to have discipline. Yoga teaches you that. Today, the youth appear in a rush to achieve something in life. Yoga helps to balance the pressure. It teaches us to concentrate on ourselves and control anxiety," the actor told ANI.

(ANI)

Actor and fitness enthusiast Shilpa Shetty Kundra lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in promoting yoga across India and the world.

Known for her commitment to fitness, Shilpa highlighted yoga's Indian roots and expressed pride in seeing the discipline gain global recognition.

"I feel very proud that yoga belongs to India and that people in the West are adopting it," the 'Dhadkan' star told ANI.

She also credited Prime Minister Modi for bringing yoga to the forefront of public discourse and encouraging wider participation through initiatives such as the Fit India Movement.

Shilpa said, "Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided that he will give importance to yoga. The recognition that yoga has received in today's times, it is because of him. I would like to thank him for this.

(ANI)

The US state of Delaware has officially recognised June 21, 2026, as the International Day of Yoga through a proclamation issued by Governor Matthew Meyer, highlighting yoga's contribution to physical, mental and emotional well-being.

The development was welcomed by the Consulate General of India in New York, which expressed gratitude to the Delaware Governor for the recognition.

In a spot on X, the Consulate General stated that the recognition highlights yoga's increasing acceptance as a universal means of promoting health, harmony and overall well-being.

(ANI)