The 1st World Yogasana Sports Championship kicks off in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, starting Thursday at the EKA Arena. Over 400 athletes from 60 countries will compete in various Yogasana events, including traditional, artistic, rhythmic pairs, and team competitions.
Running from June 4 to June 8, the event marks the inaugural global championship for Yogasana as a competitive sport. Participants from nations like the United States, Ghana, Kenya, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan will showcase their skills.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the growing global popularity of Yoga. He commended the organizers for bringing together Yoga enthusiasts worldwide and extended his best wishes to all participants.
Supported by various entities including the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the championship aims to establish Yogasana as a recognized international sport. India will field a 122-member contingent across different age categories for both men and women.
The competition will feature individual and group events, with the introduction of an electronic scoring system at the global level for the first time. The championship will be officiated by 32 international judges and 51 national judges to ensure fair judging.
Yogasana Bharat president Udit Sheth emphasized the significance of the championship in promoting Yogasana globally and providing a platform for athletes to shine. Dr. Jaideep Arya, the World Yogasana general secretary, hailed the event as a pivotal moment for Yogasana as a global sport.
The championship will commence with an opening ceremony and will be broadcast live on Doordarshan and streamed on the broadcaster’s YouTube channel from June 4 to June 8.
