Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 at Kolkata’s historic Red Road today. The event is expected to witness participation from thousands of Yoga enthusiasts at the venue and millions more joining virtually from across India and around the world.
The celebrations, organised by the Ministry of Ayush, will commence at 5 a.m., with the Prime Minister leading the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP). The event aims to reinforce Yoga’s role as a global movement promoting health, harmony and collective well-being.
This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” (स्वस्थ आयु के लिए योग), focuses on encouraging Yoga as a lifelong practice to support healthy, active and dignified ageing. The theme highlights Yoga’s contribution to preventive healthcare by enhancing physical fitness, mental resilience and emotional well-being.
Ahead of the celebrations, the Ministry of Ayush’s Yoga Sangam Portal has recorded a significant milestone, with registrations from more than six lakh organisations. The ministry said the growing participation reflects widespread enthusiasm among institutions, communities and citizens to make Yoga a true people’s movement.
The International Day of Yoga continues to draw strong global participation. Through coordinated efforts by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), over 210 Indian Missions abroad will organise Yoga events at nearly 2,500 locations worldwide, showcasing Yoga’s growing international appeal and its roots in India’s ancient knowledge traditions.
Adding a cultural dimension to the celebrations, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), will organise special Yoga programmes at 100 iconic locations across the country. The initiative seeks to connect India’s cultural heritage with its Yoga traditions.
Major events will be held at 12 prominent sites, including Red Fort in New Delhi, Haridwar, Konark, Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Mumbai, Nalanda, Ahmedabad, Sarnath, Leh, Hyderabad and Silchar. The programmes are aimed at highlighting Yoga as an integral part of India’s civilisational and cultural legacy.
The Ministry of Ayush has encouraged citizens participating virtually to join the Common Yoga Protocol session, share their Yoga experiences on social media and contribute to the global celebration of Yoga.
Participants attending the Kolkata event will also be introduced to Ayush Aahar, promoting the message of holistic health and wellness.
