Hyderabad hosted a large-scale Yoga Mahotsav to mark the 50-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga 2026. The event, organised by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga under the Ministry of Ayush, took place at the Kanha Shanti Vanam spiritual centre.
According to the Ministry of Ayush, more than 6,000 participants simultaneously performed Bhujangasana at Kanha Shanti Vanam, establishing a new record in the Asia Book of Records for the largest group performing the asana together. This accomplishment exemplifies the collective engagement and wellness promoted through Yoga.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, addressed the attendees, stating, "Yoga is not merely India's ancient heritage but a priceless gift to humanity. Today, leaders, professionals, and people across the world practice Yoga and benefit from it." He highlighted Yoga's importance in nation-building and said, "For India to become a Viksit Bharat by 2047, we must build a healthy, peaceful, and disciplined society. Yoga offers a practical and cost-effective solution to modern-day challenges such as stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and pollution." He also expressed that Hyderabad, already noted globally for innovation and technology, should emerge as a global hub for Yoga and holistic wellness.
Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, also spoke, remarking, "Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, yoga has evolved into a global movement for holistic well-being, promoting physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance." He stressed Yoga's contribution to enhancing India's identity in wellness and health tourism.
The Minister highlighted the Yoga 365 initiative, saying, "Through the Yoga 365 campaign, the Ministry of Ayush, in collaboration with Habuild and MDNIY, is encouraging citizens to make Yoga an integral part of their daily lives." A 100-day free Yoga training programme is underway until June 21, aiming to engage over 100,000 participants and offering Yog Mitra certification.
He announced that the next Yoga Mahotsav, marking the 25-day countdown to IDY 2026, will be held in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, symbolising the blend of India's cultural heritage, architecture, and wellness traditions. The Minister also commended the Heartfulness Institution and the Yoga Certification Board for their role in conducting Yoga sessions at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, over six months.
Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, recognised the Heartfulness Institute's contributions, stating, "Kanha Shanti Vanam reflects the peace and balance that Yoga seeks to cultivate. This gathering is intended to ignite a nationwide movement towards health and unity."
The gathering included prominent figures such as Kamlesh D. Patel (Daaji), President of Heartfulness; D. K. Aruna, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Padma Shri Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; alongside other dignitaries from the Ministry of Ayush, state officials, and leading Yoga institutions.
A key feature of the Yoga Mahotsav was the mass demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), led by Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Director of MDNIY, with MDNIY Yoga instructors. Following the CYP practice, a Heartfulness Meditation session was conducted by Daaji. The event forms part of the nationwide preparations for IDY 2026, scheduled for June 21. Additional programme highlights included a Natyayoga performance and a Yoga fusion presentation by a Korean team.
Representatives from embassies, consulates, and international organisations spanning more than 20 countries-including Kazakhstan, Lesotho, Bulgaria, Cuba, Namibia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia-attended the event, signalling the expanding global reach of Yoga.
The Yoga Mahotsav at Kanha Shanti Vanam represents a significant step in the lead-up to IDY 2026 and reaffirms the Government of India's dedication to fostering holistic health, wellness, and sustainable living through Yoga.