Durban Consul General of India hosts yoga session
In anticipation of the upcoming
10th annual International Yoga Day, the Durban Consulate General of India, together with the Pietermaritzburg Gandhi Foundation (PGF) and Midlands Hindu Society (MHS), welcomed pupils from six schools for a vibrant yoga session at the historic Pietermaritzburg Railway Station.
Yesterday, the station buzzed with excitement and laughter as students from Allandale, Springhaven, H.S. Ebrahim, Northdale, Northlands, and Glenwood primary schools enjoyed an enriching experience. They were treated not only to an insightful tour of the station, doubling as a museum honouring Mahatma Gandhi, but also a rejuvenating yoga lesson led by MHS yoga instructor Omesh Somaroo.
Addressing the attendees, Dr Thelma John David, the Consul General of India in Durban, underscored the significance of yoga and highlighted the enduring friendship between India and South Africa.
The event not only fostered cultural exchange, but also promoted physical and mental wellbeing among the youth, reflecting the shared values of peace and harmony cherished by both nations.
David said the event was meant to commemorateYoga Day, celebrated on June 21, which she referred to as “a gift from India to the world.”
“Yoga is a form of physical exercise, but also helps alleviate stress which could improve mental fitness too.
“The youth of today are facing so much stress from home, studies, and society and so they need to find [healthy] ways to cope,” said David.
David also emotively acknowledged the close partnership between South Africa and India.
“We are diplomatic and strategic partners with a great trade relationship
and close investment in each other,” she said.
Later in the day, David launched a scholarship programme for pupils interested in studying in India. The scholarship offers studies in numerous fields including sciences and humanities.
David said that in addition to considerate financial aid and great education, applicants would have the opportunity to live in India and gain a cultural education.
For more information on those scholarships, the office encouraged people to visit www.a2ascholarships. iccr.gov.in or email itec.durban@mea. gov.in for more information.