Consulate General of India

Hambantota

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Press Release

Consulate General of India, Hambantota Celebrates the 12th International Day of Yoga 2026 at UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort

Consulate General of India in Hambantota successfully organized the grand celebration of the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 on 21 June 2026 at the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle Fort Courts Square under this year theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”

The event was graced by H.E Prof. Susiripala Manawadu, Hon’ble Governor of the Southern Province, as the Chief Guest. More than 350 Yoga enthusiasts participated in the event, reflecting the increasing popularity of Yoga in Southern Province, Sri Lanka. Participants included Mr. Chandima C. Muhandiramge, Chief Secretary, Southern Provincial Ministry Secretaries, Commanding officers of Sri Lankan Defense Forces, officials from Sri Lankan Administrative Services, representatives of Ruhunu Tourist Bureau Southern Provincial Department of Probation, Galle Municipal Council, School students, yoga practitioners and members of the general public.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Shri Harvinder Singh, Consul General of India in Hambantota, who highlighted the growing global relevance of Yoga as a holistic practice. In his address, Hon’ble Governor also appreciated the Consulate's initiatives in the Southern Province to strengthen cultural ties. He also emphasized that Yoga, an invaluable gift of India’s ancient wisdom to humanity, continues to unite people across cultures and nationalities in the pursuit of healthier and more balanced lives.

The Common Yoga Protocol session was conducted by Mrs. Liliana Bagiriyan, Yoga Instructor from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, along with her disciples. The celebration was organized under the global theme of “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” which underscores the importance of Yoga in promoting healthy lifestyles, enhancing physical and mental resilience and improving the quality of life across all age groups. The enthusiastic participation of people from diverse backgrounds and age groups highlighted the deepening appreciation for Yoga in Sri Lanka and reaffirmed the strong cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Sri Lanka.

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Hambantota

22 June 2026