‘One Earth, One Health’: Indian High Commission Brings Yoga and Wellness to South African Youth

By Virginia Keppler Young

The High Commission of India launched the 11th International Day of Yoga at the Midland International School in Midrand, with around 200 students from grades 6 to 11 participating in the day’s activities.

Special attention was paid to the overall well-being of the students, exam-stress management techniques, bright mind exercises, relaxation, and meditation practices.
Apart from the traditional Yoga session the learners also enjoyed a Yoga Laughter session by Jayesh Bhanna.

According to the High Commission of India, the theme for this year is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” echoes a vital truth that personal wellness and planetary health are inseparably linked.

A representative from the High Commission of India, in Pretoria, Durga Dass, who is the Second Secretary looking after the Press, Information, and Culture portfolio attended the event. He told the learners that Yoga is an ancient art of India that spans over 5000 years.
“Yoga strengthens the body, calms the mind, and fosters a heightened sense of awareness and responsibility in daily life. This mindfulness allows one to choose healthier and more sustainable lifestyles,” he said.
Dass joined the Ministry of External Affairs in 1993 and has already done 7 postings. South Africa is the 8th assignment. Dass has been working closely with the International Day of Yoga since its inception in 2015.

The High Commission of India said International Day of Yoga will be celebrated globally on 21st of June. “Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, Yoga goes far beyond just physical movement. It is a universal science of inner balance and holistic well-being.
“At a time when stress, lifestyle diseases, and mental health challenges are on the rise, Yoga offers a steady, time-tested path and helps us find calm within ourselves and live more peacefully with those around us,” the High Commission said in a statement.

The International Day of Yoga was adopted at the 69th Session of the United Nations General Assembly with a record of 177 countries co-sponsoring it on 11th December 2014.