New Delhi

The main event of the International Day of Yoga 2026 will be held in Kolkata on June 21, Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav announced on Wednesday.

He also said that the theme for this year will be ‘Yoga for Healthy Aging’, highlighting the role of yoga in promoting physical health, mental well-being and healthy ageing.

The announcement was made during the Yoga Mahotsav 2026 organised at the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, to mark the commencement of the 25-day countdown to International Day of Yoga (IDY).

A large number of yoga enthusiasts took part in the event organised by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) under the Ministry of Ayush.

Addressing the gathering, Jadhav said that Kolkata, which is steeped in India's traditional heritage and spiritual consciousness, will host the main celebration of IDY 2026.

The theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Aging’ reflects the growing importance of yoga in promoting holistic well-being in advancing age, he said.

The minister emphasised that yoga represents India's ancient wisdom and plays a vital role in preventive healthcare and balanced living.

Jadhav also said that Khajuraho, with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, represents the harmony between India's ancient traditions and wellness practices.

The city has the potential to emerge as a global centre for yoga and wellness, he said.

Emphasising that yoga should become a part of daily life, Jadhav said the Ministry of Ayush, under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is continuously working to take yoga to every village, household, school, office and community through sustained outreach and public participation.

Highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare, Jadhav said that yoga and initiatives such as the Ayush Aahar promote balanced nutrition, disciplined living and overall well-being.

The minister also relaunched the Yoga Sangam portal on the occasion to facilitate online registrations and strengthen public participation for IDY 2026, and launched the Yoga Park portal to support the development of dedicated yoga spaces across states and institutions.

He also unveiled a yoga T-shirt promoting the message of yoga, health and wellness, and said that more than two lakh individuals participated in a 100-day free yoga training programme under the ‘Yoga 365’ campaign.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who joined the programme virtually, said in a video message that yoga and Khajuraho are integral symbols of India's cultural heritage.

The younger generation is increasingly embracing yoga as part of their daily life, contributing towards a healthier and more aware society, he said.

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Madhya Pradesh ministers Inder Singh Parmar and Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi and Khajuraho MP Vishnu Datt Sharma also addressed the event.