Bengaluru: More than 4,000 inmates participated in a mass yoga session at the Central Prison, Parappana Agrahara, as part of the 12th International Yoga Day celebrations. The event brought together prisoners from various divisions of the correctional facility and highlighted the role of yoga in promoting physical and mental well-being.
According to a press release issued by the Office of the Superintendent and Chief Superintendent, the programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from inmates and prison staff under this year’s International Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”.
The large-scale event was organised as part of ongoing efforts to encourage healthier lifestyles and improve the mental health of prisoners through regular wellness activities.
Senior prison officials attend programme
The yoga session was attended by senior officials from the Karnataka Prisons and Correctional Services Department.
Among those present was Alok Kumar, Director General of Police, Prisons and Correctional Services, Bengaluru, who addressed participants on the importance of yoga.
During his speech, Kumar emphasised the role of yoga in enhancing physical fitness, mental strength, self-confidence and discipline.
He noted that yoga can serve as an effective tool for improving overall well-being and helping individuals develop a balanced lifestyle.
The event was also attended by the Inspector General of Prisons, Deputy Inspector General of Prisons, superintendents, chief superintendents, senior officers and prison staff.
Inmates from multiple divisions participate
The programme saw participation from inmates across different sections of the prison complex.
Women prisoners, convicts, undertrial inmates, prisoners housed in Annex-1 and those in the high-security division all joined the mass yoga session.
The combined participation exceeded 4,000 inmates, making it one of the largest yoga events organised within the prison system.
Officials said the overwhelming response reflected growing awareness among inmates regarding the benefits of yoga and meditation.
Support from organisations and institutions
Several organisations contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.
Members of the Art of Living Foundation participated in the event and supported the yoga activities.
Additionally, UCO Bank provided 1,500 kits for inmates taking part in the programme.
The Prison Ministry of India also distributed 120 yoga mats to women prisoners to encourage continued participation in wellness activities.
Officials said such support helps strengthen rehabilitation and health-focused initiatives within correctional institutions.
Yoga and meditation conducted regularly
Prison authorities stated that yoga and meditation are already an integral part of inmate welfare programmes at the facility.
Regular sessions are organised to improve the physical and mental health of prisoners and assist in stress management.
Apart from yoga, inmates are encouraged to participate in various health-enhancing and recreational activities aimed at supporting rehabilitation and personal development.
Officials believe such programmes contribute positively to inmate behaviour, emotional well-being and overall prison management.
Theme focuses on healthy ageing
This year’s International Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, emphasises the importance of yoga in helping individuals remain active, independent and healthy throughout their lives.
Participants performed a range of yoga asanas and pranayama exercises during the session.
The activities were designed to create awareness about the long-term benefits of yoga and its contribution to physical fitness, mental peace and healthy ageing.
Prison officials said inmates and staff participated enthusiastically throughout the programme.
Significance of International Yoga Day
International Yoga Day is observed annually on June 21 across the world.
The observance follows a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014 after a proposal put forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to the United Nations, 2026 marks the 12th edition of International Yoga Day.
Over the years, the event has evolved into a global movement promoting the practice of yoga and its benefits for physical and mental health.
Conclusion
The participation of more than 4,000 inmates in the International Yoga Day celebrations at Bengaluru’s Central Prison highlights the growing emphasis on wellness and rehabilitation within correctional institutions. Through regular yoga, meditation and health-focused programmes, prison authorities aim to improve the overall well-being of inmates while fostering discipline, self-confidence and positive lifestyle changes.