Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Harvinder Kalyan on Sunday emphasized that yoga is not merely exercise but an excellent way of living that connects the body, mind, and soul. He stated that yoga has introduced the world to India's ancient culture, knowledge, and philosophy of life.
District-Level Celebration in Panipat
Kalyan was addressing a gathering as chief guest at a district-level celebration of International Yoga Day 2026, held at Shivaji Stadium in Panipat. The event was organized jointly by the Haryana Yoga Commission and the Department of AYUSH. The celebration revolved around the themes 'yoga for healthy old age' and 'yoga-enabled, drug-free Haryana'. Hundreds of yoga practitioners, students, teachers, representatives of social organizations, players, and yoga experts participated in the yoga practices.
Program Inauguration and Collective Yoga
Kalyan inaugurated the program by lighting a lamp and took part in the collective yoga practice according to the protocol. Participants also listened to messages from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini. In his address, Kalyan noted that most countries worldwide are now adopting yoga and reaping its benefits, which is a matter of pride for every Indian.
Global Recognition of Yoga
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts for giving yoga a global identity, adding that after the United Nations resolution, the entire world celebrates International Yoga Day. Yoga provides physical, mental, and spiritual strength and infuses positive energy into life, he said.
Personal Experience with Yoga
Sharing his personal experience, Kalyan revealed that about 18 years ago, due to a serious injury, he faced significant difficulties walking. However, regular yoga practice helped him return to a healthy life. He reiterated his unwavering faith in yoga and considers it the most effective means of healthy living.
Call for Wider Adoption
Kalyan stressed that yoga centres should reach every home so that each member of society can lead a healthy, cultured, and positive life. He called on youth to participate actively, stating that by 2047, when India becomes a developed nation, everyone must play their role and prepare the coming generations for it. 'Yoga is an invaluable cultural heritage of India. It not only makes the body healthy but also positively influences thoughts, behavior, and outlook on life. We should make yoga a part of our daily lives and contribute to building a healthy, cultured, and developed India,' Kalyan asserted.
Additional Deputy Commissioner's Remarks
Additional Deputy Commissioner Ankit Chouksey welcomed the chief guest and said that yoga is not just a way to keep the body healthy but an art to balance and discipline life. Regular yoga practice helps keep stress at bay, enhances productivity, and fosters positive thinking in society. Making yoga a part of daily life can lead to healthy families, communities, and a nation.
Oath for Drug Eradication and Honors
On this occasion, Kalyan administered an oath of drug eradication to those present and called for society to be protected from the harmful effects of drugs. Fifteen yoga practitioners and experts who contributed significantly to promoting yoga and raising awareness were also honored. Notable attendees included Mayor Kamal Saini, Education Minister’s representative Harpal Danda, SP Bupinder Singh, Additional Commissioner Municipal Corporation Vivek Choudhary, SDM Mandeep Kumar, and others.
