Kolkata: Kolkata’s historic Red Road became yoga-friendly on the 12th International Yoga Day. Thousands of people had been gathered in the field since morning. West Bengal Governor C.V. accompanied PM Narendra Modi on the stage. Anand Bose and the Chief Minister were also present. Everyone did yoga together and took a pledge to lead a healthy life.
What did PM Modi call yoga?
Modi said that today the world is connecting with the thread of yoga. Yoga is not just a way to keep the body fit. It connects people and spreads positive energy in society. He said, “International Yoga Day has now become a festival of entire humanity. It is the global form of India’s ancient tradition.”
Why was the land of Bengal considered special?
PM described Bengal as the land of spirituality and culture. Remembered Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Swami Vivekananda and Lahiri Mahasaya. He said, “These saints took the message of yoga and spirituality to the world. It is a privilege for me to celebrate Yoga Day on such a sacred land.”
Why praise the cleanliness campaign?
Modi praised the cleanliness campaign conducted in Bengal on Yoga Day. He said that cleanliness and health go hand in hand. If we want to keep the society healthy then we will have to keep the streets and localities clean along with the body.
Is yoga only an event of 21st June?
The PM appealed to the people not to consider yoga as a function of one day in a year. Make it a daily habit. Only then will you get real benefit. Eating chutney once a week does not taste good, only if you eat it daily will you be healthy.
Why is yoga important in old age?
This year’s theme was “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”. Modi said that yoga keeps the body active, keeps the mind calm and gives youthful energy even in old age. He gave the target – “Feel as fit and active as 30 even at the age of 50.”
How was the atmosphere on Red Road?
After the speech, PM himself was seen doing yoga and pranayam with thousands of people. There was enthusiasm among the people since morning. Children, elders, women – everyone did Surya Namaskar together.
The atmosphere was as if the entire city was sitting in a class. Overall, this view of Red Road showed that Yoga has now come out of India’s identity and has become a lifestyle of the world. Asana, pranayama and resolution – all three together.
