Shun ‘Bhoga’, embrace Yoga: Bollywood actor’s advice to youth

Bengaluru: In a powerful message to India’s youth, Bollywood action star Vidyut Jammwal lent his voice and presence to the nationwide anti-drug initiative ‘Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan’, urging young people to embrace the discipline of Yoga and lead a life of mental and physical freedom.

The actor was a special guest at the state-level launch of International Yoga Day and International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held in Bengaluru in the presence of Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot.

Known for his martial arts prowess and fitness discipline, Vidyut Jammwal struck a chord with the audience — especially the youth — as he emphasized the role of inner strength, focus, and self-control in resisting addiction and negative influences.

“Yoga is not just about flexibility or poses — it is a way of life. It teaches you to control your mind, your emotions, and your reactions. That’s real strength,” Jammwal told a cheering crowd.

“Today, we are not just celebrating Yoga; we are declaring war against drug addiction. And the warriors in this war are our youth,” he added.

Actor as role model: Power, Purpose and Positivity

Vidyut’s participation brought star power and authenticity to the event. A vocal supporter of clean living and natural fitness, the actor reflected on how discipline, determination, and self-awareness — core principles of Yoga — have shaped his own journey.

He urged the youth to find purpose through positive choices. “Drugs don’t make you cool. Self-mastery does,” he said, receiving thunderous applause.

The actor also interacted with volunteers, yoga practitioners, and de-addiction counsellors, expressing his admiration for those working on the frontlines of the campaign.

He applauded the integrated approach of combining Yoga, spirituality, medical support, and awareness to combat substance abuse.

A call to rise

Launched as a joint effort by the Ministry of AYUSH, Narcotics Control Bureau, S-VYASA University, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, and other partners, the Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan aims to empower youth to lead India’s de-addiction movement.

The event’s theme — “Yoga and De-addiction: One Health, One Earth” — highlights the deep connection between personal wellness and planetary sustainability.

Governor Gehlot, in his keynote address, emphasized how Yoga builds positive energy and self-control — qualities that can shield the youth from addiction.

Vidyut Jammwal echoed this sentiment, saying: “Yoga gives you the weapons to fight the biggest enemy — your own weakness.”

Beyond the screen: Vidyut’s real-life action

Often referred to as India’s own action hero, Vidyut Jammwal is a trained Kalaripayattu martial artist and a fitness icon who embodies the values of discipline and wellness.

His presence at the campaign launch wasn’t just symbolic — it was motivational, especially for thousands of students and young professionals tuning in.

“Our culture has given us Yoga — a tool for mental clarity and physical power. Let’s use it. Let’s rise above,” he concluded.

Highlighting hope: The way forward

With a potent combination of policy, health interventions, spiritual support and youth engagement, the Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan is gaining momentum nationwide.

The launch of the Manas Rajya Sahayavani Helpline and new de-addiction centers reinforces the state’s commitment to rehabilitation and recovery, not just enforcement.

And with icons like Vidyut Jammwal stepping forward, the message is clear: strength is not in addiction, but in awareness, wellness, and willpower.