By South Matters National Desk | Sports
The World Yogasana Championship 2026 began in Ahmedabad as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first-ever global competition through a video message. The event marks a major step in promoting Yogasana as a competitive sport on the international stage.
The championship takes place in Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Athletes from several countries have gathered to compete and celebrate India’s ancient yoga tradition.
World Yogasana Championship 2026 Opens in Ahmedabad
The World Yogasana Championship 2026 has brought together participants from across the world. Prime Minister Modi said the event adds a new chapter to global sports history.
He noted that hosting the championship in Ahmedabad is a matter of pride for India. Moreover, the event comes just weeks before International Yoga Day on June 21.
According to the Prime Minister, the championship and Yoga Day together create a strong message of health and wellness.
PM Modi Highlights Global Growth of Yoga
During his address, Modi recalled India’s successful effort at the United Nations to establish International Yoga Day.
He said nearly 190 countries supported India’s proposal. Since then, millions of people worldwide have adopted yoga, meditation and pranayama as part of their daily lives.
Furthermore, he described the championship as a new phase in yoga’s global journey.
Yogasana Moves Towards Competitive Sports Recognition
A key focus of the event is the promotion of Yogasana as a recognized competitive sport.
Modi expressed confidence that Yogasana could eventually become part of the Olympic Games and other international multi-sport competitions.
He added that the championship will help create awareness and encourage more athletes to participate in Yogasana competitions.
New Career Opportunities Through Yogasana
The Prime Minister said the growth of Yogasana sports could create opportunities for:
- Athletes
- Trainers
- Sports scientists
- Researchers
- Event managers
As a result, the sector could develop into a significant sports ecosystem in the coming years.
Yoga for Healthy Ageing
The Prime Minister also highlighted the 2026 International Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
He explained that yoga helps people remain healthy, active and physically fit for longer periods.
Additionally, he encouraged people across the world to make yoga a daily habit and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Yoga 365 Campaign Gets Global Push
Modi praised the Ministry of Ayush’s Yoga 365 campaign, which promotes year-round yoga practice.
He urged participating athletes to act as ambassadors for yoga when they return to their home countries.
According to him, their experiences can inspire more people to embrace yoga and wellness.
A Historic Moment for Global Yoga
The inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026 represents a significant milestone for India’s traditional practice on the world stage.
With growing international participation and support, Yogasana is steadily moving toward mainstream sporting recognition while continuing to promote physical fitness, mental well-being and global harmony.