Tue Jun 03 16:20:41 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Visakhapatnam, India is preparing to host “Yogandhra-2025,” a massive International Yoga Day event on June 21st, expected to draw over 500,000 participants, including Prime Minister Modi. Concerns are being raised by health experts and organizations about the potential for the event to become a COVID-19 super-spreader event, given a recent rise in cases. While current variants are not causing severe illness, the risk of long-term health issues and the vulnerability of those with co-morbidities are cited as reasons for caution. The state government’s prior COVID-19 advisory, which was withdrawn before a large political gathering, is also being criticized.

**News Article:**

**Massive Yoga Event in Visakhapatnam Sparks COVID-19 Concerns Amid Rising Cases**

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – June 3, 2025 – Preparations are underway in Visakhapatnam for “Yogandhra-2025,” a massive International Yoga Day event scheduled for June 21st, but growing concerns are being voiced about the potential health risks amidst a recent increase in COVID-19 cases.

The event, expected to draw over 500,000 participants along a 20-km stretch of Beach Road and feature Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is raising alarm among health experts and organizations who fear it could become a super-spreader event.

“While the current Omicron variants are not causing severe illness, the sheer scale of the gathering, combined with potential lapses in mask-wearing and social distancing, creates a significant risk,” warned Dr. [A doctor said:]. “We cannot ignore the possibility of long-term health consequences, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.”

Praja Arogya Vedika (PAV) has formally appealed to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, urging a reconsideration of the event’s scale. They point to the recent rise in active COVID-19 cases both in Visakhapatnam and nationally as justification for caution.

The state government’s handling of COVID-19 advisories has also come under scrutiny. The withdrawal of an advisory against large gatherings before a recent Telugu Desam Party (TDP) meeting, where attendees largely disregarded mask mandates, has fueled criticism.

While Dr. K. Rambabu, Director of Visakha Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), believes the overall risk is low due to widespread immunity, he stressed the importance of extra precautions for individuals with co-morbidities. “Yoga itself poses little risk, provided participants maintain a safe distance during asanas,” he stated.

The debate highlights the ongoing tension between public health concerns and the desire to return to normalcy as India continues to navigate the evolving COVID-19 landscape. The situation is being closely monitored as the June 21st event draws closer.

Read More