Prayagraj: The Sangam city witnessed an enthusiastic public participation on the 12th International Day of Yoga with yoga sessions held at several prominent locations across the district under the theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing,’ on Sunday.At Triveni Sangam nose, more than 9,000 people, including politicians, district officials, traders, and others, arrived to perform yoga together.Deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya was the chief guest on the occasion. He said “Yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a sacred medium to unite the body, mind, and soul. Regular practice of yoga not only ensures excellent health but also provides us with mental peace and positive energy. Today, the entire world is embracing this ancient Indian discipline, which is a matter of pride for every Indian.”Sand artists-Ajay Gupta, Aditi Tripathi, Manoj, and Prince-created a special sand art at Sangam VIP Ghat highlighting the importance of yoga and its role in promoting health, peace, and wellness. The initiative received appreciation for spreading the message of yoga and healthy lifestyle.In a vibrant demonstration of health, discipline and harmony, Ordnance Depot, Fort, Prayagraj, also conducted Yoga Day celebrations under the aegis of Purva UP and MP Sub Area, Prayagraj New Cantt, at the historic and sacred grounds of ‘Akshay Vat’ Vatika.The session was conducted by chairperson family welfare, Archana Sohal, under the theme-Yoga for Healthy Aging. Over 350 participants, including army personnel and their families, took part in the seeion to explore how ancient yogic traditions serve as a vital, lifelong practice for maintaining physical vitality, mobility and mental clarity. The participants were engaged in a comprehensive experience covering essential breathing techniques and physical postures specifically curated to promote long-term well-being and resilience.The International Yoga Day was also celebrated at the Rapid Action Force (RAF) 101 Battalion campus in Prayagraj, under the joint aegis of Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Prayagraj, and the RAF. The event commenced with the ‘Yoga Sankalp’. Speaking at the event, vice-chancellor of the Open University, Prof Satyakam, remarked that yoga is not merely an exercise but a holistic way of life. It promotes physical health, calms the mind, and brings clarity to the intellect.Commandant of the RAF 101 Battalion, Manish Kumar Bharti, said that for forces like the RAF, mental balance is just as essential as physical fitness. Yoga empowers individuals to remain calm and focused even in high-pressure situations and, it should be integrated into one’s daily routine. Speakers urged all participants not to view yoga merely as a one-day event but to adopt it as a part of their everyday lives.Similar event was held at the North Central Railway Headquarters in Prayagraj. The event commenced with a live broadcast of the main program addressed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Kolkata.A yoga workshop was organised at the badminton hall within the Railgaon complex at Subedarganj under the leadership of general manager, North Central Railway and chief guest of the event Naresh Pal Singh and in the presence of president, NCR Women’s Welfare Organization Hima Chauhan Singh.As per the directions of the ministry of AYUSH, a yoga programme was also organised by the Cantonment Board (Prayagraj) witnessing enthusiastic participation from the office staff of the Cantonment Board, employees of the Cantonment Board General Hospital, teachers, staff members, and students of all the schools functioning under the board. The participants were encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle and practice yoga regularly for their overall well-being.The chief guest of the programme was Defence Estates Officer Amit Mishra, while the chief executive officer, Nagesh Kumar Pandey, graced the occasion as the guest of honour. Mishra said that in today’s fast-paced lifestyle, yoga inspires all of us to lead a healthy, happy, and positive life. He emphasized that regular yoga practice not only strengthens the body but also enhances mental concentration, self-confidence, and work efficiency.