24 Apr 2026
Jaipur Yoga Mahotsav 2026
The Jaipur Yoga Mahotsav 2026 commenced on April 24, 2026, at Mahatma Gandhi University of Medical Sciences and Technology (MGUMST), Jaipur, with a strong message promoting Yoga as a pathway to inner equilibrium, self-awareness, and holistic well-being.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. M. L. Swarankar, Emeritus Chairperson, MGUMST, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized that Yoga is fundamentally about attaining “Swamatvam Sthithi”—a state of inner balance and self-awareness—and serves as a means to harmonize the mind, body, and consciousness.
The session was presided over by Dr. Achal Gulati, Vice-Chancellor, MGUMST. Distinguished guests included Dr. N. D. Soni, Dean, Principal and Controller, MGMC&H; Major General Anupam Agarwal, MG, GS (Operations), Headquarters South Western Command, as Guest of Honour; and Dr. Ishwar V. Basavaraddi, Director and Professor, Centre for Yoga, Wellness and Integrative Medicine (CYWIM), who served as Program Director.
The event began with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and felicitation of dignitaries. Addressing the gathering, Major General Agarwal stressed the importance of adopting Yoga as a disciplined way of life, highlighting its relevance for holistic wellness, particularly in high-stress professions such as the armed forces. Dr. Gulati reminded participants that only 58 days remained until the International Day of Yoga 2026 and encouraged regular practice of the Common Yoga Protocol.
A mass Common Yoga Protocol session, led by Dr. Basavaraddi, witnessed participation from more than 1,000 individuals, including Yoga Gurus, over 80 soldiers from the South Western Command, more than 150 nursing professionals, around 100 medical practitioners, over 350 representatives from various Yoga organizations across Jaipur, and faculty members and students of MGUMST.
The cultural segment featured a Yoga music fusion performance by students and scholars of CYWIM. A special Yoga demonstration was presented by Swami Jitanand Ji Maharaj, an internationally acclaimed spiritual leader, adding inspiration and enthusiasm to the inaugural celebrations.
The Jaipur Yoga Mahotsav 2026 aims to promote awareness of Yoga's transformative benefits and encourage its adoption as an integral component of healthy living and preventive healthcare.