Kolkata, June 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Kolkata on Sunday, emphasizing that yoga is a powerful force that unites humanity and promotes holistic well-being.
Speaking before a large gathering, the Prime Minister noted that June 21 has become one of the world’s largest collective celebrations, with millions of people across continents participating in yoga activities. He said that from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, and from the Northeast to the western coast of India, the entire nation was energized by the spirit of yoga.
“Yoga connects people, brings societies together, and strengthens the bond between nations,” he said while extending greetings to people around the world on International Day of Yoga.
Praise for Kolkata’s Cleanliness Initiative
The Prime Minister also lauded the people of Kolkata for their commitment to cleanliness ahead of the event. He described the city’s “Cleanliness for Welcome” campaign as an inspiring example of civic responsibility and public participation.
Celebrating Bengal’s Spiritual Heritage
Highlighting Bengal’s rich spiritual and yogic traditions, Modi recalled the contributions of great personalities such as Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Lahiri Mahasaya. He said their teachings helped introduce the world to India’s ancient wisdom and yoga traditions.
The Prime Minister also referred to Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, noting that his philosophy of human connection reflects the essence of yoga.
Focus on “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”
This year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” received special attention during the address. Modi said yoga enables people to remain healthy, energetic, and active even as they grow older.
He stressed that age should not limit human potential and that yoga helps individuals maintain flexibility, vitality, and resilience against lifestyle-related diseases throughout life.
“Yoga teaches us to become lifelong learners of our own bodies and minds,” he said, adding that the theme is relevant not only for senior citizens but for people of all ages.
A Path to Physical and Mental Well-being
Quoting from the Bhagavad Gita, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of balance in food, activity, sleep, and daily routines. He said yoga offers a practical path to achieving that balance and helps people lead healthier and more disciplined lives.
He further noted that yoga contributes not only to physical fitness but also to mental wellness, inner peace, and emotional stability. According to him, yoga can play a significant role in fostering harmony and peace in society and across the world.
“Yoga 365” Receives Global Participation
The Prime Minister highlighted the success of the “Yoga 365” initiative, a 100-day online yoga programme launched this year. He revealed that more than 3 million participants from 130 countries took part in the initiative, demonstrating yoga’s growing global appeal.
Call to Adopt Yoga Beyond a Single Day
Concluding his address, Modi urged people to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives rather than limiting it to an annual event.
“Let us make yoga a part of our lives, our families, and the generations to come,” he said, expressing hope that a healthier society would lead to a stronger, more prosperous, and self-confident nation.
The Prime Minister ended his speech with the traditional prayer, “May all be happy, may all be healthy,” and extended his best wishes to people across the world on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga.