KOLKATA, India — June 21, 2026
International Yoga Day 2026 was celebrated across the globe on Sunday, with yoga events organized at more than 2,500 locations worldwide. Marking the 12th edition of the United Nations-recognized observance, this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” highlights the role of yoga in promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being across all age groups.
India’s main national event was held on Kolkata’s iconic Red Road, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a large-scale yoga session attended by thousands of participants. The gathering showcased yoga’s growing global influence and India’s continuing efforts to promote the ancient practice as a tool for holistic wellness.
PM Modi Extends Greetings on International Yoga Day 2026
Addressing participants at the event, Prime Minister Modi extended his greetings to people around the world on the occasion of International Yoga Day.
He also praised residents of Kolkata for their efforts in maintaining cleanliness around the event venue, describing the initiative as an example of civic responsibility and community participation.
“The spirit of cleanliness and public cooperation seen here is inspiring for the entire nation,” the Prime Minister said while addressing the gathering.
‘Yoga Is More Than Exercise, It Unites Humanity’
Highlighting yoga’s global significance, Modi said yoga has evolved into a powerful symbol of human unity and collective well-being.
Referring to June 21, which is the longest day of the year in many parts of the world, he noted that the date has also become one of the largest global celebrations due to International Yoga Day.
“From the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, from eastern India to western India, the entire country is energized by yoga today. The world appears more connected through the practice of yoga. Yoga brings people together and strengthens the bonds of humanity,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that yoga is not limited to physical postures but serves as a pathway to balance, discipline, and harmony.
Thousands Join PM Modi for Mass Yoga Session
Thousands of yoga enthusiasts gathered at Red Road to participate in the event alongside the Prime Minister. According to local officials, many attendees arrived before sunrise to secure their places at the venue.
This year marked a significant milestone for West Bengal, as the state hosted the national International Yoga Day celebration for the first time.
Participants included students, professionals, senior citizens, yoga practitioners, and members of various social organizations, reflecting yoga’s broad appeal across different sections of society.
Kolkata Metro Starts Operations at 4 a.m. for First Time in 42-Year History
To facilitate travel for participants attending the large-scale event, Kolkata Metro introduced special services beginning at 4 a.m., a first in its 42-year operational history.
Officials said the decision was made to ensure smooth transportation to Red Road, where thousands were expected to gather for the Prime Minister-led yoga session.
Metro services operated at intervals of approximately 14 to 15 minutes between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. on multiple corridors, including the Blue Line, Green Line, and Yellow Line.
The Blue Line, Kolkata Metro’s busiest and oldest corridor, significantly expanded operations for the day. Instead of the usual 152 Sunday services, authorities operated 214 services, including 107 up and 107 down trains.
Special Metro Connectivity Boosts Access to Red Road
Special early-morning trains were operated on routes connecting Dakshineswar, Noapara, Mahanayak Uttam Kumar, and Shahid Khudiram stations.
The enhanced connectivity allowed participants from suburban and distant parts of Kolkata to reach central city locations conveniently. Travelers could disembark at Park Street or Esplanade stations and walk to the Red Road event venue.
Officials noted that additional metro services also benefited candidates and families traveling for various examinations and activities scheduled later in the day.
Yoga’s Global Reach Continues to Expand
Since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014 following India’s proposal, International Yoga Day has grown into one of the world’s largest wellness movements.
This year’s observance saw participation from governments, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and community groups across continents, underscoring yoga’s expanding role in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventive healthcare.
As millions joined celebrations worldwide, the message of International Yoga Day 2026 remained clear: yoga continues to serve as a bridge connecting people, cultures, and communities through the shared pursuit of health and well-being.
