Madhya Pradesh celebrated the 12th International Yoga Day with grand state-level events as President Draupadi Murmu, Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav performed yoga together at Garrison Ground in Jabalpur. Hundreds of dignitaries, officials, legislators and citizens joined the mass session.

The President was seen removing her glasses before joining the asanas. CM Yadav and the Governor performed alongside her. The event carried the theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Age’ and witnessed enthusiastic participation across the state.

In Indore, the city created a new record as thousands of people performed Bhramari Pranayama continuously for more than three minutes under the guidance of yoga trainers. Organisers described it as a symbol of growing public awareness and collective commitment towards yoga.

 The celebrations were not entirely smooth. In Rajgarh, Cabinet Minister Narayan Singh Pawar, who was already suffering from typhoid, felt unwell during the programme at Stadium Ground. Staff helped him sit backstage. After the event, strong winds caused half the tent to collapse, though no one was injured.

Events were held at multiple locations including Bhopal’s TT Nagar Stadium and near Upper Lake, Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple, Gwalior, Sanchi Stupa, Narmada ghats and many district headquarters. In several places, people performed yoga at scenic spots like river banks and hills.

Ministers, MPs, MLAs and local officials led programmes in their respective areas. In Ratlam, Cabinet Minister Chaitanya Kashyap performed yoga while seated on a chair due to discomfort. In Devs, women presented unique yoga performances based on traditional Indian lifestyle and labour.

Officials highlighted that regular yoga helps reduce stress, improves physical and mental health and promotes longevity. Many programmes also included live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from Kolkata.

The day saw active involvement of school children, police personnel, athletes and common citizens. In some districts like Singrauli, Balaghat and Guna, large crowds turned up early morning. Yoga trainers emphasised making yoga a daily habit for a healthy society.

This year’s International Yoga Day once again underlined Madhya Pradesh’s active participation in promoting India’s ancient tradition globally.