Modi to lead International Yoga Day in Kolkata amid rain forecast

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lead the 12th International Yoga Day celebrations in Kolkata, with an ambitious program planned despite a forecast of rain and thunderstorms across West Bengal. The main event on Sunday morning at Red Road is expected to draw over 30,000 participants, while millions more are slated to join yoga sessions throughout the state.

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On behalf of the people of West Bengal, I extend a hearty welcome to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji on his visit to our vibrant State. We are delighted to have Hon’ble PM join us to grace the auspicious occasion of ‘Paschimbanga Dibos and participate in the grand International Yoga Day event celebrations.

Modi, who arrived in Kolkata on Saturday for a two-day visit, will preside over the 80-minute program themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” beginning at 6:30 am. Celebrations have already begun, with a Yoga Run held on Friday and a massive 3,000-drone show scheduled for Saturday evening. Preparations at Red Road are in their final stages, with the venue decorated for the occasion.

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The momentum has picked up over the last three to four days. There would a carnival, a massive drone show, yoga on 500 boats lined up on the River Hooghly. Modi will lead the celebrations. Yoga sessions are being organised in every block across the state. One million people are expected to practice yoga in various programs in Kolkata alone with the Prime Minister leading the show from Red Road.

Government officials highlighted the widespread participation, with yoga sessions organized in every block and an expected one million people practicing in Kolkata alone. State minister Agnimitra Paul expressed enthusiasm, stating the entire world is watching India and Prime Minister Modi. Another state minister, Dilip Ghosh, noted the increased practice of yoga in homes and the millions participating in International Yoga Day events.

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The entire world is looking up to India and Modi ji. And we are fortunate the Modi ji is looking up to us. The entire city is preparing for the IYD.

However, the India Meteorological Department has predicted rain and thunderstorms for all districts in south and north Bengal on Sunday. A red alert has been issued for Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts, anticipating extremely heavy rainfall. This weather forecast casts a shadow over the outdoor yoga celebrations.

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This is change. Today yoga is being practiced in every home. People are participating in the IYD in millions. Earlier they couldn’t.