Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday said Yoga has emerged as one of India’s most influential contributions to the world under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, transforming an ancient civilisational tradition into a global movement for health, harmony and holistic well-being.
Addressing the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations organised by the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) at the Gateway of India, Sonowal said the worldwide acceptance of Yoga reflects India’s growing soft power and highlights the country’s increasing influence in shaping global conversations on wellness and sustainable living.
The celebrations witnessed participation from more than 10,000 people across various Mumbai Port Authority locations, including around 5,000 participants at the flagship event at the Gateway of India. The gathering included seafarers, NCC cadets, CISF personnel, school students, maritime professionals, port employees and citizens from different walks of life.
Participants joined the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address and Yoga session from Kolkata’s Red Road before taking part in the Common Yoga Protocol conducted by trained instructors. Sonowal said Yoga’s global recognition stands as a tribute to the Prime Minister’s efforts in promoting India’s ancient knowledge systems and securing worldwide acceptance for the practice through the United Nations.
The programme was attended by Union Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, MPs Nishikant Dubey and Ravi Kishan, along with several other dignitaries from the government, maritime sector and entertainment industry.
Apart from the Gateway of India event, Yoga sessions were also organised at Jawahar Dweep, Pir Pau, Tejpal Nagar Fire Station, residential colonies in Mazgaon and Colaba, hospitals within dock areas and aboard nearly 20 vessels and ships anchored in Mumbai Harbour.
Held under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, the celebrations highlighted Yoga’s role in promoting healthy lifestyles, active ageing and overall well-being, while bringing together members of the maritime community and the public in a collective observance of International Day of Yoga.
