In a significant announcement, Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Ayush, revealed that a 25-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 will commence in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The countdown event, organized by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), will take place at the historic Western Group of Temples, blending India's cultural heritage with the promotion of wellness through yoga. Jadhav stated that this event marks a crucial phase in the nationwide preparations for IDY 2026.
The countdown is set to begin at 6 a.m. on Wednesday and will engage a diverse audience, including yoga practitioners, students, and health enthusiasts from across the country. Participants will perform the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), a standardized set of yoga practices aimed at fostering community engagement and awareness. Jadhav emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Khajuraho stands as a living symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, and organizing a 25-day Yoga Festival at such a historic site beautifully reflects the harmony between Indian tradition and modern wellness."
- Yoga Mahotsav 2026 — a major event leading up to the 12th International Day of Yoga
- Nationwide awareness campaign — MDNIY collaborates with 100 institutions for a 100-day countdown
- Yoga 365 Days initiative — free training campaign with over two lakh registered participants
During the press conference, Jadhav highlighted the government's commitment to expanding the reach of yoga across India. He mentioned that the Ministry of Ayush is conducting a comprehensive 100-day nationwide countdown campaign in collaboration with various institutions to enhance awareness and encourage public participation. This initiative is part of the broader goal to integrate yoga into daily life and promote holistic well-being.
Since the United Nations adopted the International Day of Yoga in 2014, yoga has evolved into a global movement for health and wellness, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The upcoming Yoga Mahotsav is expected to attract significant attention and participation, reflecting the growing recognition of yoga as an essential aspect of modern wellness practices. Jadhav noted that under the “Yoga 365 Days” initiative, the MDNIY is conducting a free Yoga training campaign until June 21, with more than two lakh participants already registered as “Yoga Mitras.”
