New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday virtually inaugurated the first-ever World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad, describing the event as the beginning of a new era for Yoga and expressing confidence that Yogasana could eventually become part of major international sporting competitions, including the Olympics.
Addressing athletes, officials and delegates from several countries through video conferencing, Modi said that every enduring tradition evolves with time, and the launch of a global Yogasana championship represents an important milestone in the journey of Yoga. He noted that the event would help establish Yogasana as a recognised competitive sport on the world stage.
The Prime Minister said he was optimistic that Yogasana would gradually earn a place in prestigious international multi-sport events. According to him, the championship marks a significant step towards expanding the global reach and recognition of Yoga beyond its traditional wellness and spiritual dimensions.
Modi also highlighted the significance of hosting the event in Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage City, calling it a matter of pride for the country. He pointed out that the championship comes just ahead of International Day of Yoga, with this year’s main celebrations scheduled to be held in Kolkata.
Reflecting on India’s proposal at the United Nations nearly a decade ago to establish an International Yoga Day, Modi said the objective was to connect an ancient Indian practice with global health and well-being. He noted that widespread international support for the initiative had helped Yoga become part of daily life for millions of people around the world, with meditation and pranayama increasingly embraced as tools for healthier living.
The Prime Minister also emphasised the economic potential of Yogasana as a competitive discipline. He said that as the sport grows, it could generate opportunities not only for athletes but also for trainers, researchers, sports scientists and event management professionals, creating an entire ecosystem around the discipline.
Referring to this year’s International Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” Modi described Yoga as an accessible and cost-effective way to maintain long-term health and wellness. He encouraged participants to promote the Centre’s “Yoga 365” campaign globally and spread awareness about the benefits of Yoga in their respective countries.
Declaring the championship open, Modi told the participants that by being part of a historic moment in the evolution of Yoga, they had already achieved something remarkable regardless of the competition’s outcome.
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