New Delhi: Delhi Yoga celebrations witnessed strong public participation as the Ministry of Ayush marked the 12th International Day of Yoga at 40 prominent venues across the national capital on June 21. The events promoted this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” and encouraged people to adopt yoga for better physical and mental well-being.
The Ministry of Ayush organised the programme with the Archaeological Survey of India and several partner institutions. Participants from different age groups performed the Common Yoga Protocol and joined nationwide activities linked to the annual observance.
The historic Red Fort emerged as a major venue for the celebrations. Thousands gathered at the monument and practised yoga in a setting that highlighted India’s cultural heritage and traditional wellness practices. Dr. Mahesh Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board, and Dr. Abdul Qayyum, Director (Technical), attended the programme.
Red Fort hosts Delhi Yoga celebrations
Yoga sessions also took place at Kartavya Path, Lodhi Garden, Central Park in Connaught Place, Talkatora Garden, Yamuna Sports Complex and several other public spaces. Moreover, multiple government agencies and yoga institutions coordinated the events across Delhi.
Several dignitaries joined the programmes. Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda participated at Shantipath, while Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra attended the session at Yamuna Sports Complex. Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary joined participants at Lodhi Garden.
The sessions began after the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from Kolkata. Participants then performed the 45-minute Common Yoga Protocol. The Ministry said yoga supports healthy ageing by improving flexibility, mobility, cardiovascular health and overall quality of life.
The International Day of Yoga was celebrated across India and in more than 180 countries, reinforcing yoga’s global appeal and India’s contribution to wellness.