Ahmedabad will host the 1st World Yogasana Championship from June 4 to 8, marking the first edition of the global event. More than 500 participants from 75 countries are expected to compete across 12 events during the championship.
Addressing a gathering ahead of the event, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said, “Yoga was given to the world by India. It is an invaluable treasure discovered in our country 5,000 years ago.”
Referring to India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics, Dr. Mandaviya said, “As the country where yoga originated prepares to host the Olympic Games in 2036, we will also make every effort to establish yogasana as an Olympic sport for the first time on the world stage.”
Highlighting yoga’s significance, he said, “Yoga gives us the strength of both body and mind,” adding that yoga has evolved beyond health benefits into a globally accepted sport.
Speaking on yoga’s global reach, Dr. Mandaviya said, “All the countries in the world have started accepting yoga and making it a part of their lives.” He added that yoga remains deeply rooted in India’s traditions and culture.
The Minister also said, “Yogasana today is not just a pathway to physical and mental well-being, but also a growing source of livelihood and a powerful symbol of India’s soft power across the world.”
Calling the championship a major opportunity for India to showcase its soft power globally, Dr. Mandaviya urged the federation to work towards securing recognition for yogasana within the International Olympic Council framework.
