'Yoga for Healthy Ageing' sets tone for 2026 Observance of International Yoga Day

The 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY 2026) will be observed worldwide on Sunday with the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” underscoring the role of yoga in promoting longevity, mobility, and preventive healthcare as populations continue to age.

In Tripura, the West District Yoga Association and the Red Cross Society jointly organised a colourful rally in Agartala on Saturday to mark the occasion. The procession began in front of TB Association Hall and wound its way through the city before concluding at the Ujjayanta Palace, drawing wide participation from yoga practitioners, students, and community members.

Nationally, the main celebration will be held at Kolkata’s historic Red Road, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Ministry of Culture has also announced special yoga events at 100 iconic locations across India, blending the country’s cultural heritage with its yoga traditions.

Speaking to reporters, senior trainers highlighted that yoga should not be confined to a single day of observance but practised regularly. They pointed to initiatives such as the “21 Days/21 Minutes Challenge” launched by MY Bharat, which encourages communities to commit to daily yoga sessions leading up to the main day.

Experts noted that regular practice of yoga can help manage metabolic and lifestyle disorders, improve mental well-being, and support healthy ageing. The Agartala rally echoed this message, with participants carrying banners and chanting slogans to promote yoga as a way of life.

With the global observance set for Sunday, the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” has become the guiding message of this year’s celebrations, reminding communities that yoga is not just a tradition but a sustainable practice for healthier living across all ages.