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
