Is the K’taka government ready for International Yoga Day celebrations?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government is hosting a major event for International Yoga Day.
- Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health.
- Expected participants: 500,000 statewide.
- A significant event is planned in Mysuru.
- Future plans include aiming for 12 Guinness World Records in 2025.
Bengaluru, June 17 (NationPress) The government of Karnataka is excited to announce its preparations for a spectacular event to celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21 this year.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed that this year's celebration will take place at the steps of Vidhana Soudha, focusing on the theme "Yoga for One Earth, One Health."
Rao further indicated that around 500,000 individuals will participate in yoga sessions across the state. The government aims to facilitate 10,000 yoga programs throughout Karnataka, with a significant gathering planned in Mysuru.
Expected attendees include Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Governor, and various dignitaries, with an estimated crowd of 5,000 people.
Highlighting yoga's role in enhancing both physical and mental health, he pointed out its ancient origins and its increasing global recognition.
On the topic of introducing yoga classes in schools, he noted that discussions have already begun. He emphasized the benefits of yoga teachers and classes in educational institutions but insisted that sports should take precedence for younger children.
Rao expressed that teaching yoga at a later age might yield better results and advocated giving sports teachers a higher priority over yoga instructors in schools.
In a related note, the Bengaluru-based Akshar Yoga Kendraa is gearing up to host one of the largest global events for the 11th International Yoga Day at Palace Grounds on June 21, 2025, with the ambition of setting 12 new Guinness World Records.
Building on its impressive legacy of nine existing records, this year's celebration is set to elevate global participation, endurance, and the spiritual essence of yoga.
Under the mentorship of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Akshar Yoga Kendraa is orchestrating this worldwide celebration, expecting 2,000–2,500 participants from over 30 countries, including Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Italy, USA, UK, Dubai, Cyprus, Singapore, and more, according to an official statement.
Participants will include yoga enthusiasts, members of the Indian Army, Air Force, Karnataka State Police, NCC cadets, specially-abled individuals, corporate leaders, children from orphanages, and thousands of citizens from diverse backgrounds, as stated.
"This mega-attempt serves as a testament to purposeful living," said Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji, the spiritual leader and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa.