ANDHRA PRADESH: Visakhapatnam Set for Historic Yoga Day
Ambitious World Record Attempt
Visakhapatnam is poised to host a monumental International Yoga Day on June 21, 2025, aiming to set a world record with five lakh participants performing yoga asanas along its coastline. The state government’s YogaAndhra-2025 initiative underscores this historic endeavor, with preparations advancing rapidly.
High-Profile Attendance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will grace the 11th International Yoga Day as the chief guest. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has overseen arrangements, ensuring seamless execution across venues from RK Beach to Bhogapuram.
Extensive Coastal Arrangements
The event spans from Kalimata Temple at RK Beach to Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, with 326 compartments along the beach road. Each compartment features a small stage every 40 feet, complemented by green carpets and LED screens for visibility.
Contingency Planning
In case of rain, Andhra University’s Engineering Ground will serve as an alternative venue, with a large stage already constructed. Both venues are equipped to host yoga sessions, including 20,000 tribal students performing Surya Namaskar at AU.
Naval Participation
The Eastern Naval Command will conduct yoga sessions on 11 warships stationed off Visakhapatnam’s coast. This unique maritime involvement enhances the event’s grandeur and national significance.
Robust Infrastructure
The event, estimated at Rs. 62 crore, includes Rs. 20 crore already allocated. Key provisions include:
- Five lakh food parcels, mats, and T-shirts for participants.
- 3,000 temporary toilets, some sourced from other states.
- Medical camps every five compartments, with two 10-bed temporary hospitals and one at AU.
Stringent Security Measures
Security arrangements feature 2,000 CCTV cameras and 10,000 police personnel. A dedicated command control room and seven IAS officers overseeing the compartments ensure meticulous coordination.
Participant Management
Each compartment will accommodate 1,000 participants, with numbered mats and QR code-based entry systems. Details will be shared via WhatsApp, and 1.50 lakh T-shirts and mats have already arrived.
Logistical Coordination
Seven committees manage coordination, mobilization, transportation, and more. Over 10,000 vehicles will transport 1.25 lakh participants from nearby districts, with 6,300 NCC and NSS volunteers facilitating operations.
Governor’s Endorsement
Governor Abdul Nazeer hailed yoga as India’s greatest gift to the world, urging mass participation. A practice session led by yoga guru Ramanand at Raj Bhavan underscored the event’s significance.