From Red Fort to Hampi: India set for massive Yoga Day celebrations at 100 heritage sites
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, June 20, 2026: The Ministry of Ayush has called upon citizens across the country to take part in the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations on June 21, with large-scale events planned at 100 iconic locations and dozens of public venues nationwide.
The main national event will be held at the historic Red Road in Kolkata and will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Participants across India will perform the Common Yoga Protocol as part of a coordinated effort to promote health, well-being and India’s ancient yoga tradition.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav urged people to join the celebrations in large numbers, describing the event as a unique opportunity to showcase India’s cultural heritage and global leadership in yoga.
“This year’s celebrations will bring together India’s rich cultural legacy, historic monuments and the timeless practice of yoga,” Jadhav said, appealing to citizens to actively participate and help make the event a nationwide movement.
Yoga Celebrations at 100 Iconic Locations
For the first time, the Ministry of Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India are organising yoga sessions at 100 heritage and historical sites spread across 23 states and Union Territories.
The selected venues include some of India’s most renowned landmarks, such as Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Nalanda, Konark Sun Temple, Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Hampi and Mahabalipuram.
Punjab will host yoga events at locations in Amritsar, Batala and Bathinda, while other major venues have been identified in states including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana and West Bengal.
Delhi to Host Events at 40 Locations
The national capital will witness one of the largest urban celebrations of International Day of Yoga, with yoga sessions scheduled at nearly 40 locations.
Key venues include Kartavya Path, Lodhi Garden, Talkatora Garden, Aastha Kunj Park, Siri Fort Sports Complex and Dwarka Sports Complex, among others.
Officials said the widespread network of venues has been designed to make participation convenient and accessible for people from all walks of life.
Citizens Encouraged to Join the Movement
The Ministry of Ayush has appealed to schools, colleges, resident welfare associations, community groups, institutions and individuals to join the celebrations and reach their nearest venue on time.
Officials said the International Day of Yoga has evolved into a global movement promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and social harmony. This year’s theme places special emphasis on public participation and collective action, reinforcing yoga’s role in building a healthier society.
With thousands expected to gather at heritage sites, parks, sports complexes and public spaces across the country, the government hopes the 2026 edition of International Day of Yoga will be one of the largest and most inclusive celebrations since the observance began.