International Yoga Day 2026: PM Modi leads nation in Kolkata

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by participating at the 12th International Yoga Day from Red Road in Kolkata on Sunday (June 21, 2026). 

Addressing the nation, Mr. Modi said “June 21 marks longest day on Earth, it has now become largest community celebration day because of yoga”.

The Prime Minister said “Yoga brings people together; I congratulate people of the world on this occasion. Yoga is not just physical exercise, not restricted to any age group; it is expression of human spirit.” -- PTI

Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer has issued a proclamation in recognition of the International Day of Yoga in the state and urged residents to explore the practice for a healthier lifestyle.

In a proclamation, Meyer said yoga is a 5,000-year-old ancient practice from India that integrates the mind, body, and spirit to enhance overall health and well-being.

He said the practice of yoga fosters physical strength, flexibility, mental clarity, and emotional balance, offering valuable tools for managing stress and improving community health.

“Now, Therefore, I, Matthew Meyer, Governor, do hereby proclaim June 21, 2026, as INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA in the State of Delaware, and encourage all residents to explore this practice for a healthier lifestyle,” the proclamation read. -- PTI

At a time when the world is navigating conflict, uncertainty, and rising psychological strain, the idea of peace demands renewed attention. Traditionally approached through diplomacy and policy, peace is often framed as an external goal, negotiated across borders and institutions. Yet, despite these efforts, societies remain increasingly unsettled, suggesting that peace cannot be secured externally alone. It must also be cultivated within. Yoga facilitates this journey.

Yoga has become a cultural link that unites individuals from different continents, with the yearly celebrations of International Yoga Day evolving into a worldwide phenomenon. Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” and means to “join” or to “yoke”. It is a pathway to positive changes in body and mind.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the main event of the International Day of Yoga in Kolkata on June 21, Union Minister for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav said.

Addressing a press conference, Mr. Jadhav said this year’s theme, ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’, highlights the role of yoga in promoting physical health, mental well-being and healthy ageing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Sunday (June 21, 2026) morning lead the nation in observing the 12th International Day of Yoga from the Red Road in Kolkata.

This year’s theme for the International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” highlighting its role in promoting physical health, mental well-being, emotional resilience and active ageing, contributing to an improved quality of life.