Daily yoga essential for a healthy life, says Union Minister
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy and others during International Yoga Day celebrations in Mandya on June 21, 2026. | Photo credit: The Hindu
Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries and Mandya MP HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday (June 21, 2026) emphasized the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life, describing it as an invaluable cultural heritage of India and an effective tool for achieving physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Inaugurating the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations at the PET Cricket Ground in Mandya, Mr. Kumaraswamy said that yoga offers a holistic approach to health by promoting harmony between the body, mind and soul. “Even 15 to 20 minutes of yoga and meditation each day can significantly improve physical and mental health,” he added.
Noting that International Yoga Day is now being celebrated across the world, Mr. Kumaraswamy said that yoga has evolved into a universally recognized practice that promotes health and inner balance. He described it as one of India’s greatest contributions to humanity.
Dr. In his speech, Trinetra Mahanta Shivayogi Swamiji said that yoga is much more than a regimen of physical exercise and should be adopted as a way of life. He urged the children and youth to remain rooted in Indian cultural values and traditions.
Regular yoga practice improves flexibility, boosts immunity and improves cardiovascular, respiratory and digestive health, he said. Yoga also helps relieve stress, anxiety and depression while promoting concentration, self-discipline and spiritual growth, he added.
The event was jointly organized by District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Department of School Education, My Bharat Centre, Red Cross Society, AFI Mandya, SPYSS and various yoga organizations.
Purushottamanandanatha Swamiji was also present. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kumar, Zilla Panchayat CEO KR Nandini, Additional Deputy Commissioner BC Shivanandamurthy, Superintendent of Police Shobharani VJ and other officials attended the programme.
Published – 21 Jun 2026 16:33 IST