Fadnavis, Shinde lead Yoga Day celebrations in Maharashtra
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde led large-scale events in Pune and Mumbai respectively on Saturday, as Maharashtra marked the 11th International Day of Yoga with widespread public participation.
From university campuses to pilgrimage routes and the Mumbai coastline, thousands joined in synchronised yoga sessions aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being.
In Pune, Fadnavis addressed a Warkari Bhakti-Yoga programme organised by Savitribai Phule Pune University, Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan (Alandi), and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan (Dehu). The event brought together Warkari pilgrims, students, faculty members, and officials in a collective yoga session.
'Yoga is the soul of India's cultural heritage and a path to a healthy and joyous life,' Fadnavis said, while giving credit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for securing the United Nations' recognition of Yoga Day 11 years ago.
While highlighting the scientific design of asanas and their relevance to holistic wellness, Fadnavis also launched a new initiative, 'Arogya Wari', to integrate yoga into college campuses statewide. 'Today, the Warkari community embodied the PM Modi's message of 'Ek Bhumi, Ek Arogya (One Earth, One Health)' through unified practice,' he added.
Over 700 colleges across the state participated in coordinated yoga sessions, including more than 6,000 students and 1,200 faculty members in Pune district alone, according to the National Service Scheme (NSS). Participants practiced asanas such as Tadasana, Bhujangasana, Makarasana, Kapalbhati, and Anulom-Vilom, under the guidance of Dr Pallavi Kewhane's team.
Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, and scholar Dr Sadanand More were among those present, along with senior civic, police, and university officials.
Patil noted that nearly 10 million people worldwide participated in yoga events. 'This reflects yoga's growing global relevance as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern wellness,' he said.
In Mumbai, Shinde participated in a grand public yoga session at Marine Drive. 'Thanks to the leadership of PM Modi, yoga has been embraced globally,' Shinde said while extending the greetings on Yoga Day. 'It brings balance, peace, and discipline. We must make it a daily habit—not just an annual observance.'
Sena MP Shrikant Shinde likened yoga to national defence, saying, 'Just as soldiers guard our borders, yoga protects our bodies and minds.'
Shaina N C, Shiv Sena leader and president of I Love Mumbai, highlighted her organisation's monthly public yoga sessions and aligned the event with the government's 'One Earth, One Health' campaign. 'Yoga is not only for the body but for the soul. It connects us with nature and each other,' she said.
Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander of the Coast Guard Region (West), stressed on yoga's value for the physical and emotional resilience of armed forces personnel.
Participants were guided through yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation by Mickey Mehta and instructors from The Yoga Institute.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited Drass in Kargil to inaugurate Sarhad Shauryathon 2025, marking 26 years of India's victory in the Kargil War. Organised by the Indian Army, Sarhad Pune, and Arham Foundation, the high-altitude marathon at 10,800 ft features over 3,000 participants. The event includes four races named after key battle points, paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
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