Johannesburg - Sunday (June 21) has been declared the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations with the support of South Africa and 176 other countries.
This first global celebration of the ancient Indian practice was adopted after a proposal by the Indian Prime Minister, in his maiden address to the UN General Assembly last year.
Premier Narendra Modi, who practises yoga daily, told the assembly: “Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being.”
Events are being organised across the globe – in 251 cities in 191 countries – to celebrate the day, with the centrepiece being the performance of a set of common asanas.
The biggest event, which Indian authorities hope will set a Guinness world record for the “largest yoga demonstration/class at a single venue” will be held on the ceremonial Rajpath boulevard in New Delhi, as Modi will lead 35 000 government employees in striking poses. The event will be beamed to large screens across India.
In South Africa, the main events will take place, free of charge, at:
JOHANNESBURG
* Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, 8am-1pm. Contact Melanie at [email protected] or 083 300 8277.
* Wits University, Library Lawns, East Campus, 10am-12pm. Contact Caroline at [email protected] or 082 666 4798.
DURBAN
* Durban Amphitheatre, on the beach front, 8.30am-10am
CAPE TOWN
* Samaj Centre, Gatesville, 8.30-10.30am.
Other yoga bodies and schools are also observing the day with classes and discussions.
The Star