Sun Jun 22 12:22:55 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

This news article from *The Hindu* profiles Rajendra Kalaghatagi, a 105-year-old freedom fighter and Khadi promoter from Belagavi, India. Despite his age, Kalaghatagi is remarkably active and healthy, attributed to his daily yoga, pranayama, walking routine, and a strict, simple diet. He actively participates in community affairs, inspires others with his dedication to a healthy lifestyle, and remains a staunch advocate for Gandhian principles. The article highlights his contributions to society, his positive outlook on life, and his advice to younger generations on healthy living and mindful social media use.

**News Article:**

**105-Year-Old Indian Freedom Fighter Inspires with Yoga and Healthy Living**

**Belagavi, India – June 22, 2025** – Rajendra Kalaghatagi, a 105-year-old freedom fighter from Belagavi, is proving that age is just a number. The Gandhian and Khadi promoter remains remarkably active and healthy thanks to his dedicated practice of yoga, pranayama, and a disciplined lifestyle.

Mr. Kalaghatagi’s day begins at 3:30 am with warm-up exercises and breathing exercises, followed by a three-kilometer walk. He also maintains a simple diet of jowar roti, legumes, vegetables, and avoids fried or processed foods.

His dedication to a healthy lifestyle began over five decades ago when a doctor suggested yoga and breathing exercises as a long-term solution for his asthma. “The asthma condition has reduced by over 90% due to the regular exercise regimen,” he stated.

Beyond his personal health, Mr. Kalaghatagi is a strong advocate for yoga as a tool for social unity and well-being. “Properly organised, it can help unite the society,” he said. “Everyone should practice it.”

He encourages the youth to adopt healthy eating habits, be mindful of social media use, and pick up an exercise routine. His great-granddaughter Sachi, is proud of his zest for life, stating, “I feel very happy when people are in awe of him riding a scooter or doing chores without assistance.”

Mr. Kalaghatagi actively participated in the Indian Independence Movement in the 1940s. Post-independence, he dedicated his life to promoting Khadi and spreading Gandhian ideology.

Mr. Kalaghatagi’s story serves as an inspiring example of healthy living, community engagement, and the enduring power of the Gandhian spirit.

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