Large swarms of fitness fanatics and spiritualists are expected to attend the grand celebration of the International Day of Yoga at the Wanderers Cricket Stadium on Saturday, 24 June. Poised to attract thousands of yoga enthusiasts, the event is hosted by the Consulate General of India in Johannesburg and will take place off Corlett Dr in Illovo between 10am and 3pm.
The one-day celebration aims to promote physical fitness, mental well-being, and stress reduction through the practise of yoga.
It will bring together individuals, families, and communities for a day filled with family-friendly activities and engaging experiences.
Attendees can expect an unparalleled Yoga Day celebration that highlights the country’s commitment to fostering a multi-cultural environment and promoting holistic well-being among its citizens.
The event will feature various yoga sessions, a dedicated play area for children, interactive health stalls, diverse food options, and a cultural showcase of Indian handicrafts, decor, and artefacts.
Expressing his excitement for the event, Mahesh Kumar, Consul General of India in Johannesburg says the yoga affair aims to create an inclusive and culturally enriching environment that celebrates unity and well-being.
“We are thrilled to bring the International Day of Yoga to South Africa on such a grand scale. This event serves as a platform for people from diverse backgrounds to come together and experience the transformative power of Yoga,” says Kumar.
Yoga, which began in ancient India, is a physical, mental, and spiritual practise which incorporates a variety of postures, breathing methods, and meditation techniques to improve health and relaxation.
It has been demonstrated to lower stress and anxiety, increase flexibility and strength, and promote general well-being.
Yoga comes in a variety of styles, ranging from easy restorative practises to more energetic and strenuous ones.
Hatha yoga, which focuses on basic postures and breathing exercises; Vinyasa yoga, which incorporates fluid movements synchronised with breath; and Ashtanga yoga, which is a more structured and thorough practise, are three of the most popular varieties.
International Yoga Day, celebrated annually on the 21st of June, aims to promote all the benefits of practising yoga.
This global event has garnered immense popularity, with millions of people actively participating in events held in public spaces, parks, schools, community centres, and yoga studios.
It is held in Johannesburg in light of the City’s strong partnership with the Gauteng Central Lions, which has been instrumental in revitalising destination marketing and promoting sports tourism in the City.
Laura Vercueil, spokesperson for Joburg Tourism, believes that celebrations of this magnitude add vibrancy and diversity to Johannesburg.
“The participation of thousands of people in this global event will solidify Johannesburg as an all-year-round destination for business, sports, fashion, heritage, culture, fine arts, design, shopping, lifestyle, and leisure,” Vercueil adds.
Through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by Joburg Tourism and Gauteng Central Lions, the iconic Wanderers Stadium, with its 32,000-seat capacity, will serve as a platform to enhance the City’s positive image and attract more events.
Participants will enjoy free entrance, a complimentary yoga t-shirt, mat, and water bottle. To register, yoga fanatics are required to fill out this Google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHA2GBswSf5MXtlghbBtNSM6_i4DRnAL-omnk2EPK3IspkWA/viewform
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
21/03/2023