Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga at a spectacular gathering along the picturesque coast of Visakhapatnam. Marking a historic milestone, the event witnessed the participation of over three lakh citizens, earning recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest-ever yoga gathering.
In his address, the Prime Minister extended greetings to people across the country and the world on this global occasion. Reflecting on the journey since the inception of International Yoga Day in 2015, he recalled India’s proposal at the United Nations that received support from 175 countries. He said this support reflected a rare global consensus for the welfare of humanity. “Eleven years on, yoga has become an integral part of the lifestyle of millions across the globe,” he said.
The Prime Minister said that yoga has the power to transcend boundaries, backgrounds, age, or ability. He noted how it is now practiced from the steps of the Sydney Opera House to the summit of Mount Everest, and even in space by scientists. He also mentioned how Divyang individuals are reading yogic texts in Braille, and students from rural areas are taking part in Yoga Olympiads, reaffirming that yoga truly belongs to everyone.
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi lauded the city of Visakhapatnam for hosting the grand celebrations and praised its vibrant blend of natural beauty and progress. He appreciated the efforts of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and actor-politician Pawan Kalyan for their leadership in organising the event and launching the state-wide Yogandhra Abhiyan.
He gave special recognition to Nara Lokesh for his dedication in turning yoga into a social celebration that engaged communities across all sections of society. The Prime Minister said that the participation of over two crore people in the Yogandhra campaign reflects the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, which is the bedrock of a Viksit Bharat. He said that when citizens take ownership of national movements, even the most ambitious goals become achievable.
Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav, in his address, credited the Prime Minister for initiating the historic resolution at the UN General Assembly, which laid the foundation for a global wellness movement celebrated in more than 180 countries today. He announced the launch of 10 signature events this year as part of the International Day of Yoga celebrations, including Harit Yoga, Yoga Connect, Yoga Parks, Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Mahakumbh, and Yoga Sangam. These events have seen participation from over 10 lakh organisations across India.
Jadhav also praised the Andhra Pradesh government for the successful launch of the Yogandhra Abhiyan on May 21. He noted that as part of the campaign, over 22,000 tribal students performed 12 rounds of Surya Namaskar in just 15 minutes, setting another Guinness World Record.
He further informed that the Ministry of Ayush, inspired by the Prime Minister, has launched an initiative to promote healthy eating habits. As part of this effort, Ayush Aahar based on moringa was distributed at 70 locations across Delhi during Yoga Day celebrations, offering a healthy and tasty alternative to the public.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, while expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for selecting Andhra Pradesh to host the main event, said that the state celebrated Yoga Day with unprecedented enthusiasm. He noted that the month-long Yogandhra campaign concluded with participation from 2.17 crore people across the state, setting several records in the process.
Joining the nationwide celebration, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the Yoga Day event in Udhampur. He said that yoga, a tradition passed down by India’s sages, is now being followed globally and is more than a practice—it is a way of life.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah took part in the celebrations in Ahmedabad and shared on social media that yoga has become an essential daily habit, bringing unity to the mind, body, and brain.
Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Jagat Prakash Nadda, participated in the celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. He said that yoga nurtures balance across physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions and praised the Prime Minister’s leadership for bringing global attention to yoga. He encouraged all citizens to continue practicing and promoting yoga as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
More than 100 events were organised across the national capital to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga, further reflecting the nationwide enthusiasm and deep cultural connection to the ancient practice.