PM Modi Leads International Day of Yoga Celebrations from Kolkata, Calls Yoga a Foundation of Human Unity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday led the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga from Kolkata’s iconic Red Road, joining thousands of yoga enthusiasts in performing the Common Yoga Protocol and highlighting yoga’s role in promoting health, harmony and global unity.
Extending greetings to people across the world on the occasion, the Prime Minister noted that June 21, the longest day of the year in many parts of the world, has also evolved into one of humanity’s largest collective celebrations through yoga.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said that inspiring scenes of yoga were unfolding across India and the world. “From the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, and from Bengal and the Northeast to Saurashtra in the west, the entire nation is energized by the spirit of yoga,” he said, adding that yoga has become a powerful force connecting people through a shared commitment to wellness and harmony.
The Prime Minister also lauded the people of Kolkata for their efforts under the “Swachhta Se Swagat” initiative. He said the citizens’ dedication and civic sense in maintaining cleanliness had become an inspiration for people across the country.
Highlighting the significance of celebrating Yoga Day in West Bengal, PM Modi said the state possesses a rich spiritual and cultural legacy. He recalled that Bengal is the land of Bhagwan Ramakrishna Paramahansa and Swami Vivekananda, who introduced India’s spiritual wisdom and yogic traditions to the world. He also mentioned the contributions of Maharshi Aurobindo and Lahiri Mahasaya in advancing yogic thought and practice.
Quoting Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s philosophy that human identity is shaped through meaningful connections with the world, the Prime Minister said this principle lies at the heart of yoga. Referring to Maharshi Aurobindo’s belief that “the whole of life is yoga”, he remarked that when yoga becomes a way of life, it forms the foundation of human unity.
“Yoga is not merely a physical exercise and cannot be confined to any particular age group. It is a source of consciousness, vitality and inner illumination that enriches every stage of life,” the Prime Minister said.
Referring to this year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, PM Modi said yoga provides a pathway to remain healthy, active and energetic throughout life. He explained that healthy ageing means ensuring that advancing years do not diminish human potential.
The Prime Minister urged people to strive to become more flexible, energetic and resilient as they grow older. According to him, yoga improves flexibility, sustains energy levels, reduces stress and promotes mental well-being while helping prevent lifestyle-related diseases.
“Regular practice of yoga transforms individuals into lifelong learners of their own bodies and minds. Greater self-awareness leads to better self-management and a healthier way of life,” he observed.
PM Modi stressed that the theme of healthy ageing is relevant not only for the elderly but for people of all ages, making yoga a lifelong companion in the pursuit of health and personal growth.
Drawing from the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, the Prime Minister said balanced food habits, balanced recreation, balanced actions and balanced sleep are essential for overcoming suffering. He emphasized that balance is the very foundation of yoga and equally important for a fulfilling life.
“Yoga teaches us the art of living a balanced life. It guides us on what should be done and what should be avoided, helping us adopt a healthier lifestyle,” he said.
The Prime Minister further underlined that yoga extends beyond physical fitness and serves as a pathway from mental well-being to physical well-being. Referring to the expression “Yukta Chestasya Karmasu,” he said yoga helps individuals develop the wisdom to distinguish between right and wrong, creating inner peace and contributing to global harmony.
“Yoga is no longer relevant only as a personal lifestyle practice; it has become a necessity for building a better future for the world,” PM Modi said.
Calling upon people to make yoga an integral part of their daily routine, the Prime Minister said the International Day of Yoga should not remain confined to a single day or event but become a permanent feature of individual, family and community life.
He also highlighted the achievements of the “Yoga 365” initiative launched this year. Under the programme, a 100-day online yoga campaign witnessed unprecedented participation from around the world. According to the Prime Minister, more than three million people from 130 countries took part in the initiative, reflecting yoga’s growing global acceptance and popularity.
Concluding his address, PM Modi said that a healthy society forms the foundation of a stronger, more prosperous and more confident nation. He ended his speech by invoking the ancient Sanskrit prayer, “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah” (May all be happy, may all be free from illness), and wished for the health, happiness and well-being of all humanity.
