International Yoga Day 2026 witnessed a grand convergence of political leaders and Bollywood celebrities, all united in promoting wellness and healthy ageing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Akshay Kumar, Shilpa Shetty, Shahid Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, and several other public figures participated in events across the country, inspiring millions to incorporate yoga into their daily lives.
PM Modi Leads Yoga Session in Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the day in Kolkata, where he led a mass yoga session and delivered a message on the importance of inner peace. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that yoga is not just physical exercise but a tool for mental well-being and harmony. According to PM Modi, yoga helps in achieving a balanced life, especially in today's fast-paced world.
Akshay Kumar's Mass Yoga Session in Delhi
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar conducted a large-scale yoga session in Delhi, drawing thousands of participants. Known for his fitness advocacy, Kumar demonstrated various asanas and encouraged people to adopt yoga for a healthier lifestyle. He stated, "Yoga is a gift from our ancient tradition that keeps us fit and stress-free. I urge everyone to practice it daily."
Shahid Kapoor Interacts with Children in Mumbai
In Mumbai, actor Shahid Kapoor engaged with school children in a special yoga event. He performed simple yoga poses with the kids and spoke about the benefits of starting yoga at a young age. Kapoor shared that yoga helps in building concentration and physical strength, which are essential for growth and development.
Shilpa Shetty and Jackie Shroff Join the Movement
Shilpa Shetty, a long-time yoga enthusiast, conducted a session in Pune, focusing on women's health and flexibility. Jackie Shroff participated in an event in Ahmedabad, where he highlighted the role of yoga in healthy ageing. Both celebrities stressed that yoga is for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
Nationwide Participation and Impact
The events were part of a larger nationwide initiative to promote yoga as a daily practice. According to the Ministry of Ayush, over 10 million people participated in yoga sessions across India on International Yoga Day 2026. The day's activities were broadcast live on television and social media, reaching an estimated audience of 50 million viewers. The collective effort of celebrities and leaders helped reinforce the message that yoga is a key to holistic health and well-being.
