Kolkata is preparing for the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga
June 19, 2026: Kolkata is set to host the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga on June 21, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to lead the main event at Red Road. BJP leaders and ministers described the occasion as a historic moment for West Bengal, highlighting the state’s spiritual connection to Yoga and its association with Swami Vivekananda. Union Minister of State for AYUSH Prataprao Jadhav said the Prime Minister’s participation would make the celebrations even more significant, while state leaders praised Yoga’s growing global influence.
Ahead of the main event, several activities have been organised across Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. These include yoga sessions in schools, government offices and corporate institutions, wellness campaigns, women’s health programmes, and special events for senior citizens, police personnel, firefighters and healthcare workers. A ‘Daud Se Dhyan’ marathon was also held in Kolkata as part of the build-up to the celebrations, with ministers and senior officials taking part.
The city will witness a series of cultural and public engagement programmes, including “Vande Yogam” events, West Bengal Foundation Day celebrations, yoga-themed illuminations and a mega drone show featuring nearly 3,000 drones. Organisers have also planned mass yoga demonstrations on 500 boats across the Hooghly River. The main Yoga Day event will begin at 5 a.m. on June 21, with thousands expected to participate in person and millions more joining virtually from India and around the world.