Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 12th International Yoga Day in Kolkata on June 21, 2026, highlighting the practice's unifying power [1, 2].
The event underscores India's effort to position yoga as a global tool for public health and diplomatic unity. By promoting the practice as a universal human spirit, the administration seeks to institutionalize healthy ageing, and mental wellness on a worldwide scale.
During the celebrations in Kolkata, Modi said that yoga is an expression of human spirit [1]. He urged people not to confine the practice to any specific age group, emphasizing that its benefits for health and wellbeing are universal [1].
The Prime Minister said yoga is a force which connects not just our nation but all of the world [2]. This sentiment was echoed by reports of celebrations extending from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean [2].
According to reports, millions of people participated in the International Yoga Day events across the globe [3]. The scale of the participation reflects the growing international adoption of the practice as a means of achieving physical and mental balance.
Modi said the initiative aims to promote healthy ageing, and holistic wellness [1, 2]. The 12th anniversary of the international observance serves as a benchmark for the global reach of the tradition—transitioning from a regional practice to a recognized international health standard.
“"Yoga is an expression of human spirit"”
The continued promotion of International Yoga Day by the Indian government serves as a form of soft power diplomacy. By framing yoga as a non-sectarian 'expression of human spirit' rather than a religious practice, India expands its cultural influence while aligning with global public health goals regarding mental health and ageing.
