New Delhi, 26 May (H.S.): The first edition of the World Yogasana Championship was officially unveiled on Tuesday in New Delhi. This will be the world’s first international competitive Yogasana championship. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports as well as Labour and Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, launched this global sporting initiative in the presence of federation officials and representatives of various sports organisations.

The World Yogasana Championship 2026 will be held from June 4 to 8 at Eka Arena in Ahmedabad. More than 60 countries are expected to participate, with athletes and delegations from Uganda, Zambia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Kenya, Japan, Oman, Mauritius, and the Netherlands among others, giving the event a historic global identity.

The championship is being viewed as a major step by India towards establishing Yogasana as an internationally recognised competitive sport and potentially paving the way for future Olympic recognition.

### Logo, Trophy and Mascot ‘Veer’ Unveiled

During the event, the official logo, trophy, jersey, and the mascot named ‘Veer’ (a lion) were also launched. The theme of the event reflects India’s cultural heritage, youth power, global unity, and modern sporting excellence.

The World Yogasana Championship is being supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of AYUSH, Sports Authority of India (SAI), Gujarat Sports Authority, Gujarat Tourism, and the Gujarat Yogasana Sports Association.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that India is now rapidly moving towards establishing Yogasana as a global competitive sport. He said the World Yogasana Championship represents India’s youth, culture, and growing role in global sports. He added that the event will give a new direction to the Yogasana-based sports economy and connect athletes from across the world with India.

World Yogasana and Yogasana India Secretary General Dr. Jaideep Arya said that participation from all five continents indicates that Yogasana is rapidly emerging as a global sport. He stated that the aim is not only to organise a championship but to establish Yogasana as a world-class sporting discipline aligned with modern standards.

Yogasana India President Udit Sheth said that Yogasana can become a major global sporting contribution from India. He added that it is not just a competition but a global sports movement originating from India, incorporating modern scoring, training, and broadcasting systems.

Asian Yogasana President Dr. Sanjay Malpani said that Yogasana is rapidly gaining popularity among young athletes across Asia and other parts of the world.

World Yogasana Secretary Ekta Bauderlik said that Yogasana can develop essential qualities such as balance, concentration, patience, and discipline among children and youth.

The championship will feature events such as traditional Yogasana, artistic Yogasana, rhythmic pairs, and team events. Athletes will compete under junior, youth, and elite categories under international rules. Experts believe the event will lay a strong foundation for Yogasana’s inclusion in major multi-sport events and potentially the Olympic Games in the future.

The World Yogasana Championship 2026 is being seen not just as a sporting event, but as a fusion of India’s ancient yoga tradition and modern sporting excellence. It is expected to further strengthen India’s position as a global hub for wellness and sports leadership.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar