International Yoga Day | PM's Crowd Pulling Power Overshadows Yoga Lure on Red Road in Kolkata Tens of thousands of people gathered on Red Road in Kolkata on Sunday morning to celebrate International Yoga Day, but the event’s focus shifted from the ancient practice to the charismatic presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The crowd, estimated at 40,000, arrived before sunrise, stretching and bending for nearly an hour as the event unfolded. Many participants admitted that Modi’s political appeal, rather than the spiritual or physical benefits of yoga, had drawn them to the city’s “green lungs.” Rajesh Kumar Chandan, a 53-year-old businessman from Kankurgachhi, confessed that his recent adoption of yoga was directly influenced by Modi’s initiatives. “Whatever Modiji says, I will do,” he said. Similarly, Samrat Sikder, a schoolteacher from Ranaghat, credited Modi’s 2014 proposal for the United Nations’ designation of June 21 as International Yoga Day. “India showed the way thousands of years ago; Modi showed the way in 2014,” Sikder added, emphasizing the pride in hosting the event in Bengal. The logistics of the event reflected the political significance of Modi’s involvement. The Red Road, a major thoroughfare in Kolkata, was closed for a week leading up to the event, despite a court challenge to the closure. The BJP government, which came to power in May, also relocated Eid prayers from Red Road to the Brigade Parade Grounds, citing concerns over traffic congestion. On Sunday, however, the crowd and sentiment seemed to prioritize Modi’s presence over these logistical changes.#prime_minister_narendra_modi #international_yoga_day #red_road #west_bengal_chief_minister_suvendu_adhikari #union_ayush_minister_prataprao_jadhav
International Yoga Day Celebrations Unite Global Community Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering on International Yoga Day on June 21, 2026, in Kolkata, emphasizing the unifying power of yoga and its role as the world’s largest collective celebration. Speaking at the event on Red Road, Modi highlighted how the practice bridges cultural and geographical divides, fostering a sense of global connection. He noted that the day, which coincides with the longest day in parts of the world, has evolved into a platform for unity through yoga. Modi’s remarks drew on India’s rich spiritual heritage, referencing historical figures such as Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Maharshi Aurobindo, and Lahiri Mahasaya, who he credited with elevating the yoga tradition. He underscored that yoga’s essence lies in its ability to create a shared sense of belonging, describing it as a force that binds the nation and the world. The Prime Minister’s speech also aligned with the theme of the 2026 International Day of Yoga, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” which he linked to promoting physical health, mental well-being, and active aging. The celebration in Kolkata marked the first time the event was held with significant public fanfare in the city. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and several BJP leaders attended, reflecting the political and cultural significance of the occasion. The venue, the Kolkata riverfront, was adorned with decorations, and live-streaming screens were set up across the city to broadcast the event. Modi praised the city’s efforts in organizing the event, including a citywide cleanliness drive, which he called inspiring.#kolkata #prime_minister_narendra_modi #international_yoga_day #red_road #west_bengal_chief_minister_suvendu_adhikari
Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Leads Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s Bold Attempt at 21 Guinness World Records On June 21, 2026, Akshar Yoga Kendraa is set to attempt an unprecedented feat by pursuing 21 new Guinness World Records in Bengaluru during the International Yoga Day celebrations. This ambitious initiative, organized by the yoga collective founded by Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, aims to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of yoga, marking a significant milestone in the global promotion of the practice. The event, scheduled for the 21st of June, will see participants from diverse backgrounds and professions unite under a shared goal, reflecting the universal appeal of yoga. Akshar Yoga Kendraa is no stranger to record-breaking achievements. Over the years, the organization has successfully secured 21 Guinness World Records through large-scale yoga initiatives. This year’s endeavor, however, is set to surpass previous accomplishments by attempting another set of 21 records within a single day. The scale of the event is expected to be unprecedented, with organizers anticipating widespread participation. From school students and educators to senior citizens and wellness practitioners, the event aims to showcase yoga’s accessibility and relevance across all age groups and professions. The participation of frontline service groups adds another layer of significance to the event. Personnel from the Indian Air Force, CRPF, CISF, BSF, and Karnataka State Police are expected to join the record attempts, alongside specially-abled participants and children from social welfare institutions. This inclusion highlights the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and recognizing the role of yoga in promoting well-being for all segments of society.#bengaluru #guinness_world_records #himalayan_siddhaa_akshar #akshar_yoga_kendraa #international_yoga_day
