NEW DELHI: VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital celebrated International Day of Yoga 2026 with enthusiastic participation from more than 1,000 individuals, reaffirming its commitment to preventive healthcare, holistic wellness and environmental sustainability.
The event was organised under this year’s global theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” bringing together faculty members, resident doctors, nursing officers, students, administrative staff and healthcare professionals for one of the institution’s largest wellness programmes.
The celebrations began with a grand mass yoga session held within the hospital campus. Participants from various departments gathered to practice yoga and promote awareness about the importance of incorporating wellness practices into everyday life.
The programme was led by Dr. Kavita Sharma, Director of VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, who attended as the chief guest. Other dignitaries present included Dr. Charu Bamba, Medical Superintendent; Dr. R.P. Arora, Senior Chief Medical Officer; and Dr. Sujata, Senior Consultant, Yoga & Naturopathy, Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN). Senior faculty members, department heads and officials from across the institution also participated in the event.
Yoga as a Tool for Healthy Living
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kavita Sharma emphasized that yoga is far more than a physical exercise and serves as a holistic approach to maintaining long-term health and wellness.
She highlighted that yoga supports healthy ageing by improving physical fitness, strengthening immunity, reducing stress and promoting mental well-being. She also stressed the growing importance of preventive healthcare in today’s world, where lifestyle-related illnesses continue to rise.
Dr. Sharma encouraged healthcare professionals and citizens alike to integrate yoga into their daily routines to achieve a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
She noted that healthcare institutions have a significant role to play in promoting wellness beyond treatment and that encouraging healthy habits can positively impact communities on a larger scale.
Common Yoga Protocol Performed At VMMC
Participants performed the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) under the supervision of Dr. Sujata and her team from CCRYN.
The session featured a comprehensive series of yoga practices, including:
- Various yoga asanas to improve flexibility and physical strength.
- Pranayama techniques focused on breathing and respiratory health.
- Meditation exercises to enhance mental clarity and emotional balance.
- Relaxation techniques designed to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
The instructors also educated participants about the scientific benefits of yoga and explained how regular practice can help prevent lifestyle disorders such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes and stress-related conditions.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across different age groups, highlighting yoga’s universal appeal and accessibility.
Participants Watch PM Narendra Modi’s Address
As part of the nationwide celebrations, attendees also viewed the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s International Yoga Day address from Kolkata.
During his speech, the Prime Minister underlined yoga’s role in fostering health, harmony, resilience and sustainable living. He encouraged people across the world to embrace yoga as a means of achieving both personal well-being and collective progress.
The message resonated strongly with participants, many of whom described yoga as an effective tool for balancing the demands of modern life while maintaining physical and mental wellness.
Tree Plantation Drive Reinforces Sustainability Message
Following the yoga session, the institution organised a tree plantation drive across the hospital campus. The initiative aimed to connect personal health with environmental well-being and reinforce the importance of sustainable living practices.
Dr. Kavita Sharma, Dr. Charu Bamba and Dr. R.P. Arora led the plantation activity, planting saplings alongside participants from different departments.
Several trees were planted as a symbol of the hospital’s commitment to environmental conservation and ecological responsibility. The organisers highlighted that creating greener spaces not only benefits the environment but also contributes to healthier communities by improving air quality and promoting biodiversity.
Coordinated Efforts Ensure Successful Celebration
The entire programme was coordinated by Dr. R.P. Arora, Senior CMO, whose efforts helped ensure smooth execution and large-scale participation. The organising team worked extensively to facilitate involvement from various departments, coordinate logistics and manage the multiple activities scheduled throughout the day.
Their efforts reflected the institution’s emphasis on collaborative healthcare initiatives that extend beyond clinical services.
Commitment to Holistic Healthcare
The International Day of Yoga celebration at VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital showcased the institution’s broader vision of integrating traditional wellness practices with modern healthcare systems.
By combining yoga, community participation and environmental initiatives, the hospital highlighted the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to public health.
The event concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to incorporate yoga into their daily lives, encourage healthy habits among their families and communities, and actively contribute to building a healthier and more sustainable society.
The participation of more than 1,000 individuals underscored the growing acceptance of yoga as an essential pillar of holistic health, preventive care and overall well-being.
