New Delhi

From the ghats of the Ganga in Haridwar to the ruins of Hampi and the historic ramparts of Delhi's Red Fort, 12 culturally significant landmarks across India have been chosen to host national-level events for the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026.

The main Yoga Day celebration will take place in Kolkata on June 21, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav said the initiative aims to blend India's civilisational heritage with the enduring practice of yoga through synchronised celebrations across the country.

"The flagship events will be synchronised with the main national celebration of IDY 2026 in the presence of the prime minister, creating a unique nationwide experience that connects citizens across states and Union Territories," Jadhav told PTI.

The 12 selected venues are:

• Red Fort
• Har Ki Pauri
• Konark Sun Temple
• Hampi Group of Monuments
• Leh Palace
• Shore Temple
• Sarnath
• Kanchari Fort
• Charminar
• Gateway of India
• Nalanda Mahavihara
• Sabarmati Riverfront

Yoga and heritage under one theme

The celebrations will be organised under the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing", highlighting yoga's role in supporting physical well-being, mental resilience and active ageing throughout life.

"Just as these monuments have endured across centuries, yoga continues to offer practices that support physical vitality, mental resilience, and healthy ageing across generations," Jadhav said.

The minister noted that the selected sites collectively narrate India's diverse cultural journey:

• Sarnath and Nalanda reflect traditions of learning and contemplation.
• Konark and Mahabalipuram showcase India's architectural brilliance.
• Har Ki Pauri and the Sabarmati Riverfront symbolise the intersection of spirituality and community life.
• The Red Fort, Charminar, Gateway of India and Leh Palace represent defining moments in India's historical evolution.

A nationwide celebration

Yoga practitioners at all 12 venues will perform the Common Yoga Protocol simultaneously with the Kolkata event, transforming heritage spaces into centres of collective wellness.

"The simultaneous observance will demonstrate how yoga continues to serve as a bridge between India's past and present, linking centuries-old traditions with contemporary aspirations for healthier lifestyles," Jadhav said.

He added that whether practised in the Himalayan landscape of Ladakh, along the Ganga in Haridwar, amid Hampi's ancient ruins, or in major urban centres such as Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad, yoga remains a unifying force connecting people across regions and generations.

"As India prepares to celebrate International Day of Yoga 2026 under the theme 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', these 12 flagship locations will showcase the country's enduring commitment to wellness, inclusivity and cultural continuity," the minister said.

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"In doing so, the 12 historic sites will not merely host yoga events; they will tell a larger story of a nation drawing strength from its civilisational roots while embracing a healthier future for all."