Government of West Bengal Highlights Paramahansa Yogananda’s Legacy in Yoga Day Celebrations in Kolkata
In the days leading up to the 12th International Day of Yoga (celebrated on June 21), the Government of West Bengal honoured our revered Gurudeva and founder of the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS) Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda and other spiritual luminaries with special displays across the city of Kolkata.
A Citywide Tribute to Yoganandaji and Other Spiritual Icons
In a beautiful celebration of Bengal’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, official government banners were displayed all across Kolkata. Paramahansaji was honoured alongside some of the greatest minds and mystics from West Bengal: Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, Sri Rabindranath Tagore, and Sri Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
Spectacular Celebrations: Sand Art and Drone Shows
The tributes extended beyond banners, capturing the imagination of thousands of citizens through breathtaking public displays. A stunning, intricate sand art display was crafted on the banks of the Hooghly river at the Millennium Park, drawing crowds who gathered to pay their respects. On June 21, the night sky came alive with a spectacular, synchronized drone show. Thousands of illuminated drones formed dazzling patterns over the water, symbolizing the light of yoga and meditation spreading across the world.
With events such as these, Paramahansaji’s vision of Yoga — not merely as a physical discipline, but as the highest and most definitive path to inner peace for all humanity — continues to receive recognition at the highest levels.
YSS Offers Special Programmes on International Day of Yoga at Kolkata and Serampore
On June 21, 2026, despite heavy rains and overcast skies, hundreds of truth-seekers, yoga enthusiasts, and YSS devotees gathered to participate in International Day of Yoga programmes organized at two venues in and around Kolkata: the Yogoda Satsanga Math, Dakshineswar, and the Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri Smriti Mandir in Serampore.
Dakshineswar
At a special programme conducted at the Yogoda Satsanga Math, Dakshineswar, on June 21, a YSS monastic introduced participants to the history and modern relevance of the science of Kriya Yoga. He emphasized how this sacred science serves as an antidote to modern stress and worries and harmonizes the body, mind, and soul, offering a practical way to dissolve tension and anxiety. He also explained that regular practice of this Kriya Yoga technique unlocks deep inner calmness, quieting both the breath and the mind to awaken blissful divine perception. Attendees were guided through a foundational meditation session that included the practice of correct posture, preliminary breathing exercises, visualization, and affirmation techniques.
Serampore
At a programme organized by Yogoda Satsanga Dhyana Kendra, Serampore, nearly 215 local residents gathered in the lawns of Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri Smriti Mandir.
The programme commenced with a beautiful inaugural song performed by teachers from the Children Satsanga group. Attendees witnessed a synchronized yoga demonstration that perfectly showcased the harmony, discipline, and artistic beauty of yogic postures.
YSS sannyasi Swami Achyutananda Giri gave an inspiring discourse on Inner Peace, in which he included an insightful session on prayer and meditation techniques, illustrating their vital role in achieving mental clarity and holistic well-being.
Sri Bhaskar Bhattacharya, Hon’ble Minister of State for Labour and Public Health & Engineering (PHE), Government of West Bengal, was honoured by YSS as the Chief Guest of the programme.
Moved by the profound spiritual atmosphere, the Minister shared that he had come primarily as a listener rather than a speaker, noting that he felt greatly benefitted and inspired by the evening’s presentations.
The programme served as a wonderful opportunity for the local community to participate and experience the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga meditation, establishing the practical relevance and reinforcing the timeless essence of Gurudeva’s teachings.
Experience Inner Peace With Us
International Day of Yoga Programmes Available for Viewing in Multiple Languages
As the teachings of Kriya Yoga meditation continue to be recognized globally for their profound impact, we invite you to take your own step toward inner harmony.
If you wish to experience inner peace, learn scientific meditation techniques, and practise guided meditations led by YSS sannyasis, we welcome you to view International Day of Yoga programmes conducted by YSS.
Let us unite in the spirit of Yoga to bring peace in our hearts and harmony in the world.
