Kolkata is all set to host the national
celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, with Prime
Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lead the Common Yoga Protocol session at
the city’s iconic Red Road.

At a curtain-raiser press conference held
at Nabanna Sabhaghar on on June 19, state and central leaders outlined
elaborate preparations for what is expected to be one of the largest Yoga Day
gatherings in the country. The event will begin at 5 am and is expected to draw
thousands of participants on-site, with millions more joining virtually from
India and abroad.

A major highlight of the briefing was the
release of 12 special commemorative postal covers marking International Day of
Yoga 2026.

Organisers said this year’s celebrations,
themed ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing,’ will extend beyond the main event,
with a series of public outreach programmes across West Bengal. These include
yoga sessions in schools, government offices, healthcare institutions and
workplaces, along with initiatives focused on women, senior citizens and mental
well-being.

The city has also planned several public
engagement activities, including cultural events along the Hooghly riverfront,
and mass yoga demonstrations on 500 boats. A large-scale drone show featuring
nearly 3,000 drones and special illuminations across Kolkata’s landmarks are
expected to add to the spectacle.

Officials said Yoga Day celebrations are
being organised at nearly 2,500 locations worldwide through Indian missions
abroad, underscoring the growing global reach of the annual event.

With Red Road set to become the focal point
of the national observance, Kolkata is preparing for a celebration that blends
wellness, culture and public participation on an unprecedented scale.