PM Modi to Lead International Yoga Day Celebrations in Bengal: What We Know So Far

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit West Bengal to participate in International Yoga Day celebrations on June 21, according to senior BJP leader and former West Bengal party chief Dilip Ghosh. The event is expected to draw around 30,000 participants, making it one of the largest Yoga Day gatherings in the state.

Speaking ahead of the celebrations, Ghosh highlighted yoga's growing popularity across the world and underlined the significance of the Prime Minister's participation in this year's programme.

"Yoga has become very popular; it is practised in 200 countries. There will also be a Yoga Day. The Prime Minister is coming to Bengal this time to participate in Yoga Day celebrations, and we will practice yoga with 30,000 people," Dilip Ghosh said.

Preparations Already Underway Across the State

According to Ghosh, preparations for the event began a week in advance, with daily yoga practice sessions being organised to encourage wider public participation.

The focus, he said, is not only on the main event but also on spreading awareness about the health and wellness benefits of yoga among people across the state.

"Yoga promotion and practice have begun a week in advance and are happening daily. Efforts are underway to ensure that yoga reaches every home, every person, every household," he added.

Special Yoga Session Planned on the Ganga

One of the unique attractions planned for this year's celebrations in West Bengal is a yoga session on the Ganga River.

Ghosh revealed that participants will perform yoga on boats, adding a distinctive element to the state's observance of International Yoga Day.

"This time, there will be a huge event on the Ganga River, where yoga will be practised on a boat," he said.

Why International Yoga Day Matters

International Yoga Day is observed annually on June 21 and has become one of India's most prominent global cultural initiatives. The United Nations General Assembly adopted the proposal for the observance in 2014 after it was introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Since then, Yoga Day has evolved into a worldwide movement promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and holistic health. Yoga events are now organised across continents, with participation from governments, institutions and communities.

Nationwide Celebrations Led by AYUSH Ministry

As in previous years, Indian missions abroad and government agencies across the country are coordinating programmes to mark the occasion. The Ministry of AYUSH is leading the national observance, with events planned in multiple cities and states to encourage greater awareness and participation in yoga.

With Prime Minister Modi expected to lead celebrations in West Bengal this year, the state is preparing for a large-scale event aimed at showcasing yoga's growing appeal and its role in promoting healthier lifestyles.

(With inputs from ANI)