Chhattisgarh observed the 12th International Yoga Day with great fervour as Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai led a large gathering in mass yoga at the PG College Ground in Ambikapur. Hundreds of people, including ministers and citizens, joined him in performing asanas and pranayama.

CM Sai described yoga as India’s ancient tradition and way of life gifted by sages. He said the state government has introduced yoga in school curriculum to build healthy, disciplined and alert children. He urged people who have not yet adopted yoga to start from today itself for a healthy body and mind.

In Rajnandgaon, Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh was the chief guest at the Digvijay Stadium event themed ‘Yoga for Healthy Age’. He called yoga an invaluable heritage of Indian culture that helps prevent diseases and promotes longevity. Governor Raman Deka performed yoga in Raipur while other leaders participated in their respective districts.

Controversy in Bemetara

The celebrations were not without drama. BJP MLA Ishwar Sahu from Saja boycotted the district-level programme at Swami Vivekananda Stadium in Bemetara after noticing that his photograph was missing from the promotional posters and flex banners. Upset over the alleged snub, the MLA and his supporters left the venue, creating a brief flutter at the event.

CM hits out at Congress

During his address in Ambikapur, CM Sai also responded to allegations regarding tendering for the event dome, asking critics to look into their own collars first. He reminded people of alleged scams during the previous Congress regime and took a dig at Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming visit to Raipur, saying “wherever Rahul Gandhi goes, everyone knows the result.”

Youth players showcased Mallkhamb and Pyramid yoga, adding colour to the programme. In other districts like Manendragarh, Rajya Sabha MP Devendra Pratap Singh performed yoga and administered a pledge for drug-free lives. At Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur and other locations, employees and citizens actively participated.

Officials and yoga trainers highlighted how regular practice reduces stress, improves health and brings balance to life. The day saw enthusiastic participation from students, police personnel, athletes and common citizens across the state.

The episode involving MLA Ishwar Sahu has sparked discussions in local political circles even as the state government emphasised the larger message of health and wellness through yoga.