Khajuraho to Host ‘Yoga Mahotsav 2026’ as India Begins 25-Day Countdown to IDY

During the briefing, Shri Prataprao Jadhav said the Yoga Mahotsav 2026 marks an important phase in the nationwide build-up to International Day of Yoga 2026.

The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), under the Ministry of Ayush, will organise the "Yoga Mahotsav – 25-Day Countdown to International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026" at the iconic Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, marking a major milestone in India's nationwide preparations for the 12th International Day of Yoga.

The event, scheduled to take place in Chhatarpur district, is expected to bring together yoga practitioners, students, officials, wellness enthusiasts, and healthcare experts from across the country in a large-scale celebration of India's ancient wellness tradition.

Government Launches Nationwide Countdown Campaign

Ahead of the event, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Shri Prataprao Jadhav addressed a press conference in Khajuraho along with:

• Khajuraho MP Shri Vishnu Dutt Sharma

• Rajnagar MLA Shri Arvind Pateriya

During the briefing, Shri Prataprao Jadhav said the Yoga Mahotsav 2026 marks an important phase in the nationwide build-up to International Day of Yoga 2026.

The Minister informed that the Ministry of Ayush has launched a 100-day nationwide countdown campaign involving:

• 100 institutions

• 100 locations across India

The initiative aims to strengthen awareness about yoga and encourage greater public participation ahead of International Day of Yoga celebrations on 21 June 2026.

Yoga Emerging as Global Wellness Movement

Shri Jadhav highlighted that yoga, deeply rooted in India's cultural and spiritual heritage, has evolved into a global movement promoting holistic health and wellness.

He noted that the International Day of Yoga gained worldwide recognition after the United Nations adopted India's proposal in 2014 following the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to the Minister, yoga is increasingly being recognized internationally as a scientifically supported solution for addressing modern lifestyle-related health challenges such as:

• Stress and anxiety

• Obesity

• Mental health concerns

• Sedentary lifestyles

• Chronic diseases

"Yoga 365 Days" Campaign Gains Momentum

The Minister also shared updates on the "Yoga 365 Days" initiative being conducted by MDNIY in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush and Habuild.

Under the campaign, a 100-day free yoga training programme is being conducted until 21 June, and more than two lakh participants have already registered as "Yoga Mitras."

Officials stated that the campaign is intended to encourage year-round participation in yoga rather than limiting engagement to International Day of Yoga celebrations alone.

Khajuraho Chosen for Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Shri Prataprao Jadhav emphasized the symbolic importance of organizing the event at Khajuraho, one of India's most renowned heritage destinations known for its historic temple architecture and spiritual significance.

He stated that the location beautifully reflects the harmony between India's ancient traditions and modern wellness practices.

"Yoga is a priceless gift of India's ancient wisdom tradition, which has shown the world the path of a balanced, holistic, and healthy lifestyle," the Minister said.

He added that organizing the 25-day Yoga Mahotsav at Khajuraho would further strengthen the global acceptance of yoga and expand its outreach among people worldwide.

Common Yoga Protocol to Be Performed

The Yoga Mahotsav programme will commence at 6:00 a.m. and participants will collectively perform the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), the standardized yoga routine promoted during International Day of Yoga events globally.

The event is expected to witness enthusiastic participation from:

• Yoga practitioners

• Students

• Government officials

• Wellness experts

• Ayush professionals

• Citizens from across India

Senior Officials and Experts to Attend

The programme will be attended by several senior dignitaries and experts, including:

• Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav

• Madhya Pradesh Ayush Minister Shri Inder Singh Parmar

• Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Ms. Monalisa Dash

• Director, MDNIY, Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi

• Senior Ministry officials

• Yoga experts

• Representatives from Ayush systems and modern medicine

The gathering is expected to promote collaboration between traditional wellness systems and modern healthcare approaches.

Ayush Aahara to Be Distributed

As part of the programme, participants will also receive "Ayush Aahara," reflecting the Ministry's focus on holistic wellness that combines:

• Yoga

• Nutrition

• Preventive healthcare

• Traditional wellness practices

The initiative aligns with the broader Ayush Ministry vision of promoting integrated approaches to health and well-being.

International Day of Yoga Becoming Global Phenomenon

Since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, International Day of Yoga has grown into one of the world's largest annual wellness movements, celebrated across hundreds of countries.

India has increasingly used yoga as a major element of its cultural diplomacy and soft power outreach globally.

Experts note that yoga's growing international popularity reflects increasing global interest in:

• Preventive healthcare

• Mind-body wellness

• Mental health management

• Lifestyle-based healing practices

• Holistic health systems

Ministry Expanding Yoga Outreach Nationwide

The Ministry of Ayush has been intensifying efforts to integrate yoga more deeply into public health, education, community wellness, and preventive healthcare systems.

Large-scale yoga campaigns, school outreach programmes, digital training initiatives, and international collaborations have become central components of India's yoga promotion strategy.

Officials believe events such as Yoga Mahotsav 2026 help strengthen awareness, encourage mass participation, and reinforce India's role as the global centre of yoga and holistic wellness traditions.

Khajuraho Event Reflects Blend of Heritage and Wellness

The selection of Khajuraho as the venue underscores the government's effort to combine India's cultural heritage with wellness tourism and traditional knowledge promotion.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its intricate temple architecture and serene surroundings, is expected to provide a visually and spiritually significant setting for the countdown event.

The Yoga Mahotsav is likely to further build momentum toward International Day of Yoga 2026 while showcasing India's ancient wellness traditions on the global stage.