Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse participated in the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 celebrations at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) regional centre in Kandivali. More than 300 athletes, coaches, officials, support staff, and yoga enthusiasts took part in the event, emphasizing a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
The program aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting yoga globally. Recognized by the United Nations, the International Day of Yoga has transformed into a worldwide movement promoting health, harmony, and holistic well-being.
During the celebrations, a Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) session was conducted, guiding participants through various yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation practices. The event included a mass yoga demonstration, emphasizing unity, discipline, and collective well-being while promoting the message of health and harmony.
Union Minister Khadse highlighted that yoga goes beyond physical fitness, serving as a pathway to inner peace and overall well-being. She emphasized the importance of yoga in achieving mental peace, inner balance, and overall wellness.
Encouraging the integration of yoga and meditation into daily routines, Khadse noted that these practices enhance concentration, flexibility, recovery, and mental preparedness, complementing sporting excellence. Former Lok Sabha members Dr. Heena Gavit and Dr. Pritam Gopinath Munde also attended the event, advocating for the adoption of yoga as a daily practice.
SAI Regional Centre Mumbai Regional Director Pandurang Chate, along with officials, coaches, and support staff, were present at the celebrations. The event aimed to promote a healthier and fitter India while showcasing yoga as a contribution to global well-being.
