Khajuraho to Host Yoga Mahotsav 2026 as India Begins Countdown to International Day of Yoga

12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 set to host at the iconic Khajuraho temples in the state of Madhya Pradesh and with this it starts the 25-Day Countdown Event. It is organized by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) under the Ministry of Ayush and it connects the India’s rich cultural heritage with its global wellness mission.

What is Yoga Mahotsav 2026?

Yoga Mahotsav is the major outreach initiative which is organized annually as part of preparations for the International Day of Yoga.

The event marks the important 25 day countdown phase before the annual day celebration on the 21st June.

Its purpose is to,

• Build the public awareness about yoga
• Encourage community participation
• Promote holistic wellness
• Expand yoga outreach nationally and globally

Why Khajuraho Was Chosen

The Western Group of the Temples in Khajuraho provides symbolic and culturally powerful setting for this event.

Khajuraho is globally renowned for the,

• UNESCO World Heritage recognition
• Historic temple architecture
• Rich artistic heritage
• Spiritual and cultural significance

Respectable Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav highlighted that Khajuraho reflects the harmony between the India’s ancient traditions and modern wellness.

The venue perfectly aligns with the yoga’s spiritual roots with the India’s civilizational heritage.

Government’s Nationwide IDY 2026 Campaign

The Ministry of Ayush is conducting a 100 day nationwide countdown campaign preparation for the IDY 2026.

The campaign includess the,

• Collaboration with 100 institutions
• Activities across 100 locations
• Awareness drives
• Yoga demonstrations
• Public engagement programmes

This also reflects the government’s effort to make yoga a year round public health movement rather than a one-day celebration.

Yoga 365 Days Initiative

Yoga 365 Days initiative is the major supporting program.

This campaign is being implemented by the,

• Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY)
• Ministry of Ayush
• Habuild

Key highlights,

• 100-day free yoga training program
• It will running until 21 June 2026
• Around more than 2 lakh registered as a Yoga Mitras

This initiative aims to deepen the grassroots yoga participation.

The International Day of Yoga (IDY)

The International Day of Yoga is observed every year on 21 June.

The United Nations has adopted the proposal in 2014 after the India’s initiative led by Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The day aims to promote the,

• Physical fitness
• Mental well-being
• Holistic health
• Preventive healthcare
• Global wellness awareness