Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Gujarat for setting a Guinness World Record for the most people performing Surya Namaskar simultaneously at 108 venues to welcome the New Year’s Day.

He urged everyone to make Surya Namaskar a part of their daily routine due to its immense benefits.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“Gujarat welcomed 2024 with a remarkable feat — setting a Guinness World Record for the most people performing Surya Namaskar simultaneously at 108 venues! As we all know, the number 108 holds a special significance in our culture.”

“The venues also include the iconic Modhera Sun Temple, where several people joined. This is indeed a true testament to our commitment to Yoga and our cultural heritage,” he posted.

“I also urge you all to make Surya Namaskar a part of your daily routine. The benefits are immense,” he said.

On the morning of 1 January, over 4,000 participants across 108 locations and 51 different categories performed the iconic sun salutation yoga sequence, solidifying the state’s commitment to wellness and cultural heritage.

The record-breaking event, held at the majestic Modhera Sun Temple, witnessed enthusiastic participation from diverse groups, including families, students, yoga enthusiasts, and even senior citizens.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi attended the celebrations at Modhera.

The Sun Temple of Modhera is dedicated to the solar deity Surya and located at Modhera village of Mehsana district, Gujarat. It is situated on the bank of the river Pushpavati.

Swapnil Dangarikar, Adjudicator at Guinness World Records said, “I was here to verify the record for the most people doing Surya Namaskar. This is a new title because no one had attempted to break this record before.”

He said: “After going through all the evidence and seeing them perform here in Modhera…They have successfully set a new Guinness World Record title for most people doing Surya Namaskar.”

Gujarat Home Minister Sanghavi, brimming with pride, stated, “Today Gujarat has registered the first world record of the country and the world, where thousands of people have done yoga together at 108 places and in 51 variety of places.”