The city of joy is set to host a grand celebration of the 12th International Yoga Day on June 21, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to lead a massive yoga session at the iconic Red Road. Around 30,000 people from across Kolkata are likely to participate in the event, which is being planned as one of the biggest yoga gatherings in West Bengal.
This will be the first time that the main Yoga Day celebration in Kolkata will be held at Red Road, replacing the traditional venue of Brigade Parade Ground. The state administration and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) have begun preparations for the mega event, with arrangements being made to ensure smooth participation and crowd management.
The theme for this year’s International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, focusing on the role of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and a healthier lifestyle across age groups.
Along with the main programme at Red Road, yoga sessions will be organised at various locations across Kolkata. Several parks and open spaces, including prominent areas such as MoharKunj and RabindraSarobar, have been identified for community participation.
The West Bengal government is also aiming to create a record through mass participation in the event. A special initiative under the ‘Yoga Sangam’ programme has been launched to encourage registrations from schools, colleges, government institutions and citizens. Officials are hopeful of achieving a Guinness World Record for large-scale participation.
Preparations include the selection of yoga instructors, coordination with educational institutions and mobilisation of sports clubs and organisations. Schools and colleges have been asked to encourage students to take part in the programme.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit West Bengal for a two-day programme beginning June 20 and is expected to participate in the Yoga Day celebrations at Red Road on June 21. The event will mark a major public wellness initiative and a significant moment for Bengal’s hosting of the national Yoga Day celebrations.
