Nagpur: The 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 commenced with a record-setting mass yoga event in Lonar, where nearly 5,000 participants performed Trikonasana in unison, earning a place in the Asia Book of Records.The Yoga Mahotsav 2026, organised by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) under the Ministry of Ayush, was held at Chhatrapati Shri Shivaji Maharaj Udyan in Buldhana district. Participants gathered at dawn to perform the common yoga protocol.Union minister of state for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav said the feat reflected the spirit of collective participation central to yoga. He added that Lonar’s unique geological landscape symbolised a growing global focus on holistic health and harmony. Yoga, he noted, continues to support physical fitness, mental well-being, and emotional balance.Monalisa Dash, joint secretary in the Ministry of Ayush, described yoga as one of India’s most valuable contributions to the world, highlighting its role in fostering harmony between mind, body, and spirit.The session was led by MDNIY director Kashinath Samagandi and featured demonstrations of Yogasana, Pranayama, and Dhyana.The programme also highlighted initiatives such as ‘Yoga for Air Travel’, ’10 Yoga Protocols for Non-Communicable Diseases’, and the Yoga 365 campaign to encourage daily practice. A toll-free helpline offering 14 days of guided sessions was also announced.Officials said the 12th edition of IDY will focus on non-communicable diseases, geriatric health, and the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, with yoga practices.Now in its 12th year, the International Day of Yoga has grown into one of the world’s largest public health movements, with participation expanding across countries each year.#Key takeaways:India launches 75-day countdown to International Day of Yoga 2026Nearly 5,000 participants perform Trikonasana in LonarEvent enters Asia Book of RecordsOrganised by Ministry of Ayush and MDNIYHighlights global acceptance of yoga for health and unityFocus on holistic health, mental well-being and balanceShowcases initiatives like Yoga 365 and disease-specific protocolsIDY 2026 to address NCDs, geriatric health and AI integration
