Daud Se Dhyan 2026 Brings Kolkata Together Ahead of 12th International Day of Yoga Celebrations

**Executive Summary** The "Daud Se Dhyan 2026" initiative was held in Kolkata on June 19, 2026, as a precursor to the 12th International Day of Yoga. Organized under the Swachhata Se Swagat Programme, the event featured a marathon and simultaneous 2 km runs across 11 city locations to promote holistic health, cleanliness, and civic responsibility. Key government dignitaries and public figures participated to encourage citizens to embrace yoga and mindfulness ahead of the global celebrations. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Event Overview and Theme** * The initiative, titled “Daud Se Dhyan 2026 – From Movement to Stillness,” focuses on transforming energetic movement into mindfulness and meditation. * The program integrates the values of health, discipline, and collective action as part of a journey toward holistic well-being. * The event serves as a lead-up to the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 celebrations. * **Primary Activities** * A flagship marathon was flagged off from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) Headquarters to the historic Writers’ Building. * A post-marathon Yoga and meditation session was conducted at the Writers’ Building for dignitaries and participants. * A 2 km Yoga Run was organized simultaneously across 11 prominent locations in Kolkata, including Elliot Park, Gitanjali Stadium, and P.A.C. Tent Maidan. * **Leadership and Notable Participation** * The event was jointly flagged off by the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Shri Suvendu Adhikari, and the Union Ayush Minister, Shri Prataprao Jadhav. * High-level attendees included the Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, the Chief Secretary of West Bengal, and several state ministers and MLAs. * Former tennis player Shri Leander Paes participated in the Yoga session to inspire wider public engagement. **Impact Analysis** **Stakeholder: Citizens of Kolkata** **Impact** Residents across various sections of society were provided with accessible platforms to engage in physical activity and mindfulness. The event increased local awareness of the benefits of Yoga and civic responsibility. **Action Required** Citizens are encouraged to embrace Yoga as a lifestyle and participate in the ongoing series of activities leading up to the International Day of Yoga 2026. **Stakeholder: Ministry of Ayush and West Bengal Government** **Impact** These bodies are responsible for the successful execution of health initiatives and the "Swachhata Se Swagat" program. The event strengthened public participation and awareness through high-profile leadership presence. **Action Required** Officials must continue organizing and overseeing awareness activities across the state to maintain momentum for the upcoming 12th International Day of Yoga. **Stakeholder: Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Local Organizers** **Impact** These entities facilitated the logistics for the marathon and simultaneous runs across 11 distinct city locations. **Action Required** Provide continued support for community-based health and cleanliness initiatives as part of the broader national health agenda.

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