Centre shortlists names of cities for Yoga Day event

NEW DELHI: The Centre has shortlisted the names of a few cities, including Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and Ranchi, for selecting the venue of the main function of International Yoga Day this year.

"The main function of International Yoga Day (IYD) will be held outside Delhi. A few names have been shortlisted for the venue. Bhopal, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Ranchi and Bengaluru are the probable names.

"The final decision will be taken in a couple of weeks," Director of Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga I V Basavaraddi told reporters here today.

Basavaraddi was addressing a press conference at the institute a day ahead of the International Yoga Fest, a curtain-raiser to IYD, that would be held to sensitise the masses about the grand function on June 21.

"The festival is being held on March 8-9 at the Talkatora Stadium followed by a workshop on March 10," he said.

"This year we are also paying tribute to two yoga gurus, who have passed away. Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate the function," he added.