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Kolkata is all set to host the national celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lead the Common Yoga Protocol session at the city's iconic Red Road.

At a curtain-raiser press conference held at Nabanna Sabhaghar on on June 19, state and central leaders outlined elaborate preparations for what is expected to be one of the largest Yoga Day gatherings in the country. The event will begin at 5 am and is expected to draw thousands of participants on-site, with millions more joining virtually from India and abroad.

A major highlight of the briefing was the release of 12 special commemorative postal covers marking International Day of Yoga 2026.

Organisers said this year's celebrations, themed ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing,’ will extend beyond the main event, with a series of public outreach programmes across West Bengal. These include yoga sessions in schools, government offices, healthcare institutions and workplaces, along with initiatives focused on women, senior citizens and mental well-being.

The city has also planned several public engagement activities, including cultural events along the Hooghly riverfront, and mass yoga demonstrations on 500 boats. A large-scale drone show featuring nearly 3,000 drones and special illuminations across Kolkata's landmarks are expected to add to the spectacle.

Officials said Yoga Day celebrations are being organised at nearly 2,500 locations worldwide through Indian missions abroad, underscoring the growing global reach of the annual event.

With Red Road set to become the focal point of the national observance, Kolkata is preparing for a celebration that blends wellness, culture and public participation on an unprecedented scale.

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