Namaskar!
Today, from the soil of Ahmedabad, a new chapter has been added to the world’s sports legacy. The first World Yogasana Championship begins today. I extend a warm welcome to all athletes from different countries who have come to India to participate, and I convey my best wishes to them. Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage City, is hosting this event, which is a matter of pride for the entire nation. Just a few days from now, on June 21, ‘World Yoga Day’ will also be celebrated. On that day, yoga-related events will take place across various countries, with the main program being held in another historic Indian city, Kolkata. Thus, before World Yoga Day, the World Yogasana Championship has arrived, bringing with it a double dose of health and wellness.
Friends,
Nearly a decade ago, India presented the proposal for International Yoga Day at the United Nations. Our aim was to connect this ancient Indian tradition with the health and collective well-being of humanity. At that time, 190 countries supported India’s proposal. Today, it is heartening to see that millions of people have made yoga a part of their daily routine. Meditation and pranayama are becoming integral to their lifestyles.
But friends,
Every living tradition enters new phases with time. This World Championship of Yogasana Sports marks the beginning of such a new phase. Through this championship, yogasana will gain recognition as a competitive sport. I am confident that in the future, yogasana will secure its place in international sporting events, whether in the Olympics or other multi-sport competitions. With dedicated effort, positive outcomes are possible. Certainly, this first World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad will play a significant role in that journey.
Friends,
There is another dimension to Yogasana Sports. We know that every major sport brings with it an entire ecosystem. It creates new employment opportunities. As Yogasana Sports expand, new possibilities will also grow. This will open career opportunities for athletes, as well as for trainers, sports scientists, researchers, and event managers.
Friends,
As I mentioned earlier, this championship is being held at a time when the whole world is preparing for the International Day of Yoga. This year, the theme of International Day of Yoga is Yoga for Healthy Ageing. People today are searching for ways to remain healthy and active for longer. Yoga is a very suitable option for this. Yoga frees us from indulgence as well as from disease. Most importantly, it is the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle with minimal expense. Therefore, remember this mantra: Daily yoga will drive away all diseases.
Friends,
Carrying this vision forward, the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, has launched the ‘Yoga Three Sixty Five’ campaign. I urge all athletes participating in this World Yogasana Championship to carry the message of yoga back to your countries. You can become ambassadors of ‘Yoga Three Sixty Five’ in your nations. Your experience and faith in yoga can connect the entire world with this message.
Friends,
No matter who wins this competition, by being part of this historic chapter, you are already champions. Your talent and discipline will inspire youth across the globe. With these good wishes, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all participants and organizers of the World Yogasana Championship.
I hereby declare The First World Yogasana Championship 2026, Ahmedabad, open.
