New Delhi: International Yoga Day 2026 was celebrated across the world on Sunday, with millions of people participating in yoga sessions, wellness programmes and awareness campaigns under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The theme focuses on the role of yoga in promoting physical health, mental well-being, mobility and active living as populations around the world continue to age.
The 12th edition of International Yoga Day witnessed participation from countries across continents, reflecting yoga’s growing global appeal. The theme was chosen to highlight how regular yoga practice can help people maintain flexibility, balance, emotional well-being and overall quality of life throughout the ageing process. According to India’s Ministry of Ayush, the theme underscores yoga’s importance as a holistic approach to healthy and graceful ageing.
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations from Kolkata, where thousands joined a mass yoga session. Addressing participants, he emphasized that yoga should become a daily habit rather than a once-a-year event and highlighted its benefits for long-term health and vitality. Similar programmes were organised across states, with governors, chief ministers, ministers, students and citizens taking part in large-scale yoga demonstrations.
International Yoga Day was established by the United Nations in 2014 following a proposal by India and has since evolved into one of the world’s largest public wellness movements. This year’s observance included community yoga sessions, workshops, cultural events and educational programmes aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles and preventive healthcare.
Experts note that scientific interest in yoga’s health benefits has grown significantly in recent years. Research increasingly points to yoga’s positive impact on mobility, mental resilience, stress management and age-related health conditions. The “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” theme seeks to reinforce these benefits and encourage people of all age groups to incorporate yoga into their daily lives.
As celebrations concluded around the world, the message remained clear: yoga is no longer viewed merely as a traditional practice from India, but as a global tool for wellness, healthy ageing and holistic living.
