Land Minister: Yoga Symbolises Strong India-Bangladesh Friendship

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu has said that yoga stands as a distinctive symbol of the longstanding friendship and mutual trust between Bangladesh and India.

He made the statement while speaking at a discussion organised to celebrate the 12th International Yoga Day 2026 in Rajshahi on Sunday afternoon.

Minu noted that Bangladesh and India share a relationship rooted in friendship, cultural bonds and deep mutual confidence. He described yoga as an ancient regional tradition with a history stretching back thousands of years.

Highlighting the region’s historical legacy, the minister said the ancient educational centre at the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in Naogaon played a significant role in the early practice and spread of yoga. He added that from the Barendra region, yoga gradually reached different parts of the world through Buddhist communities and local people.

Emphasising the health benefits of yoga, he encouraged people to practise it regularly to enhance both physical fitness and mental well-being.

The minister also expressed hope that future International Yoga Day celebrations in the region would be broadened to include participation from neighbouring countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The event was chaired by Manoj Kumar, Assistant High Commissioner of India in Rajshahi. Special guests included Rajshahi Zila Parishad Administrator Advocate Ershad Ali Isha, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Mir Shafin Mahmud, and actress Sanchita Rani Dutta.

Speaking at the programme, Manoj Kumar said the civilizations, cultures, traditions and ways of life of Bangladesh and India are closely linked. He described yoga and Ayurveda as a shared heritage that continues to contribute significantly to holistic health and well-being in both countries.

He expressed confidence that cultural practices such as yoga and Ayurveda would further deepen people-to-people connections and strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.

The event was attended by officials and employees from various institutions of both countries, yoga practitioners, invited guests and members of the media.