India Picks Kolkata for International Yoga Day 2026

In a landmark decision, the Government of India has selected Kolkata to host the flagship International Day of Yoga event in 2026. Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav made the announcement at the Yoga Mahotsav 2026 in Khajuraho, stressing that the eastern metropolis will showcase India’s ancient wellness traditions to the world. The chosen theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', will focus on physical vitality, mental balance and preventive healthcare for senior citizens. The minister described Kolkata as an ideal host because of its deep-rooted spiritual consciousness and cultural diversity. During the ceremony at the Khajuraho temple complex, participants performed the Common Yoga Protocol in large numbers, signalling the official countdown to next year’s main event. Jadhav also relaunched the Yoga Sangam Portal to simplify online registration and launched the Yoga Park Portal to help states develop dedicated yoga venues. A specially designed yoga T-shirt was unveiled to popularise the practice, while the minister reported that more than two lakh people have already completed the 100-day Yoga 365 training and received the Yoga Mitra certificate. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, speaking online, praised the synergy between yoga and Khajuraho’s heritage. Local MP Vishnu Datt Sharma highlighted yoga’s global reach, now spanning nearly 190 countries. The announcements are seen as a major step towards integrating yoga into everyday life across India.