Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau
New Delhi, The nation swells with pride as India’s ancient Vedic tradition of Yoga makes a groundbreaking entry into the world of competitive sports through Yogasana. The 2nd Asian Yogasana Sports Championship, inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, at the iconic Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi, marks a defining moment in the journey of Yogasana towards international sporting platforms such as the Commonwealth Games and Olympics 2036.
Organized by the Yogasana Bharat, and the Asian Yogasana Federation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports & the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and supported by the Government of Delhi and the Ministry of Tourism, the championship has garnered admiration and attention from across the nation and the international community.
The event was graced by a host of distinguished dignitaries, including renowned Yogrishi and President of World Yogasana, Baba Ramdev; Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi; Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Minister of Ayush; Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism; Smt. Raksha Khadse, Hon’ble Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports; Dr. Jaideep Arya, Secretary General of World Yogasana and Yogasana Bharat; Smt. Sujata Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Sports; Smt. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; Dr. H.R. Nagendra, Chancellor of SVYASA University; Grandmaster Abhaykaran, CEO of the World Games Association; Shri Budgam Munda, grandson of Bhagwan Birsa Munda; Sadhvi Dev Priya Ji, Dean of Patanjali University; and Vishwas Mandlik Guruji, the first recipient of the Prime Minister’s Yoga Award.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mandaviya expressed his strong belief in Yogasana’s global potential:
“The light of Yogasana has already begun to shine across the globe—and I firmly believe that soon, we will see Yogasana as a recognized sport on the Olympic stage.”
Echoing the sentiment, Baba Ramdev emphasized the transformative power of Yogasana:
“In today’s world, where many sports are swayed by glamour, Yogasana stands apart. It’s a sport rooted in discipline, capable of shaping a mindfully healthy lifestyle. It will be a game-changer.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his encouragement and support in a heartfelt message:
“The presence of participants from several Asian countries enhances the significance of this championship. It represents a pivotal and proud moment in India’s continuing journey of sharing its profound traditional knowledge with the world through contemporary and engaging platforms for the benefit of humanity.”
The championship itself was a breathtaking spectacle, blending athletic Yogasana performances with vibrant cultural displays. Far beyond a competition, the event felt like a true celebration—where athletes performed to the rhythms of their native music, and spectators cheered with equal passion for every participant, regardless of nationality or origin.
Over 200 athletes from more than 20 Asian countries came together, representing a powerful symbol of unity and shared values through Yogasana. Many athletes expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality and seamless organization, making the event not only memorable but also meaningful.
With such enthusiastic participation and global recognition, the future of Yogasana as a competitive sport is more promising than ever. Its inclusion in the 2026 Asian Games as a demo sport is just the beginning – Yogasana is on its way to becoming a global movement.
