Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu spoke at International Yoga Day 2026 discussion in Rajshahi. Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, June 21, 2026 (BSS) - Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu has said yoga serves as a unique symbol of the enduring friendship and mutual trust between Bangladesh and India.

He made the remarks while addressing a discussion marking the 12th International Yoga Day 2026 in Rajshahi on Sunday afternoon.

The minister said the relationship between Bangladesh and India is built on friendship, cultural affinity and unwavering mutual confidence. He described yoga as an ancient tradition of the region with a history spanning thousands of years.

Referring to the region's historical heritage, Minu said the ancient university at the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in Naogaon played an important role in the early practice and dissemination of yoga. From the Barendra region, he noted, the discipline spread to different parts of the world through Buddhist communities and local inhabitants.

Highlighting the health benefits of yoga, he urged people to practice it regularly to improve both physical and mental well-being.

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

The programme was presided over by Manoj Kumar, Assistant High Commissioner of India in Rajshahi. Among the special guests were Rajshahi Zila Parishad Administrator Advocate Ershad Ali Isha, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Mir Shafin Mahmud, and actress Sanchita Rani Dutta.

In his remarks, Manoj Kumar said the civilizations, cultures, traditions and lifestyles of Bangladesh and India are deeply interconnected. He described yoga and Ayurveda as a shared heritage of the two countries that continue to play an important role in promoting holistic health and well-being.

He expressed optimism that cultural traditions such as yoga and Ayurveda would further strengthen people-to-people ties and bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.

Officials and employees from various institutions of both countries, yoga practitioners, distinguished guests and media representatives attended the event.