Bengal CM Subhendu Adhikari Flags Off ‘Run for Yoga’ Marathon

 

Kolkata, 19 June 2026: West Bengal Chief Minister Shri Subhendu Adhikari today flagged off the ‘Run for Yoga’ marathon organised by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to celebrate the 12th International Day of Yoga. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of yoga practitioners, students, and citizens at Red Road this morning.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of integrating yoga into daily life. “Yoga is the union of body and mind. For a healthy and strong Bengal, we must embrace yoga as a way of life, not just a one-day celebration,” said Shri Adhikari. He also performed basic yoga asanas with the participants, encouraging the youth to adopt the ancient practice for physical and mental well-being.

The marathon, which started from Red Road and covered a 3-kilometre route around the Maidan area, aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga. Participants carried placards with messages like ‘Yoga for Humanity’ and ‘Healthy Bengal, Strong India’. The event was attended by Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, senior KMC officials, and eminent yoga instructors from across the city.

Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Firhad Hakim said, “KMC is committed to promoting wellness among citizens. The overwhelming response to ‘Run for Yoga’ proves that Kolkata is ready to lead the yoga movement. We will organise ward-level yoga camps throughout the year.”

The International Day of Yoga, celebrated globally on 21st June, was adopted by the United Nations in 2014 following India’s initiative. This year’s theme, ‘Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, highlights yoga’s role in fostering global harmony.

The event concluded with a mass yoga demonstration where over 500 participants performed the Common Yoga Protocol. The KMC also distributed free yoga mats and booklets on basic asanas to encourage daily practice. Citizens lauded the initiative, calling it a significant step towards building a healthier society.