AYJNISHD(D), Mumbai Celebrates International Day of Yoga 2026 with Inclusive Mass Yoga Session at Juhu Beach

**Executive Summary** The Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan) [AYJNISHD(D)] organized a mass yoga session at Juhu Beach, Mumbai, to celebrate the 12th International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2026. Aligned with the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," the event featured over 1,400 participants, including 50 deaf individuals, to promote inclusive wellness and accessibility. The program was attended by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and focused on the physical and mental benefits of the Common Yoga Protocol. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Event Overview and Theme** * The celebration was organized by the Department of Education, AYJNISHD(D), in collaboration with the New Age Institute, Mumbai. * The 2026 theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," emphasized the role of yoga in promoting health, wellness, inclusion, and accessibility. * The event reinforced the institute's commitment to creating an inclusive society where health participation is accessible to all. * **Dignitaries and Participation** * Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, served as the Chief Guest and participated in the mass session. * A total of over 1,400 participants attended, including faculty, staff, students, and 50 deaf participants associated with AYJNISHD(D). * The Chief Minister highlighted yoga as an integral part of India’s heritage and acknowledged its global promotion by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. * **Yoga Protocol and Activities** * Instructors from the New Age Institute guided participants through the Common Yoga Protocol. * Practices included asanas such as Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Padahastasana, Ardha Chakrasana, and Trikonasana. * Pranayama techniques performed included Kapalbhati, Anulom-Vilom, and Sheetali Pranayama. * The session focused on the holistic benefits of yoga for physical fitness, mental well-being, and emotional balance. * **Coordination and Publicity** * The program was coordinated by the Department of Education, AYJNISHD(D), with the support of faculty and students. * Awareness and publicity activities were led by Shri Ved Prakash to promote inclusive participation. **Impact Analysis** **Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan)** **Impact:** These individuals were provided an inclusive environment to participate in a large-scale public health event, demonstrating the institute's commitment to equal opportunities. **Action Required:** Actively participate in similar programs and utilize the learned yoga protocols to enhance personal physical and mental health. **AYJNISHD(D) and Department of Education** **Impact:** Successful execution of the event showcased the institute’s organizational capacity and its role in promoting the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities' (DEPwD) objectives. **Action Required:** Continue to facilitate inclusive health and awareness activities and maintain collaborations with external institutes like the New Age Institute. **New Age Institute, Mumbai** **Impact:** The institute served as a technical partner, providing professional guidance to a large, diverse group of participants. **Action Required:** Provide ongoing instructor support and guidance for participants following the Common Yoga Protocol. **Government Authorities (Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment)** **Impact:** The event successfully aligned with national health themes and celebrated India's cultural heritage on a global scale. **Action Required:** Continue supporting and funding inclusive initiatives that promote the "Yoga for Healthy Ageing" agenda and ensure accessibility in public health celebrations.

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