Latest news with #RubyJaspreet
The South African
9 hours ago
- Health
- The South African
Iconic SA landmarks host International Yoga Day: How to join
International Yoga Day takes place tomorrow, 21 June. To mark the day, various South African cities will host public yoga events. Celebrations in 2024 saw 8000 yoga practitioners converge at Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. This year, there are events in multiple of the country's main cities. Originating in ancient India, yoga is now a popular practice around the world. It's no different in South Africa, with hundreds expected to join the celebrations this upcoming weekend. The United Nations recognised International Yoga Day in 2014. Then, in 2016, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recognised yoga as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage. The 2025 International Yoga Day takes place under the theme 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health'. Consul General of India in Cape Town, Ruby Jaspreet, told IOL that 'yoga' is the Sanskrit word for 'union': 'It's a timeless practice that brings harmony between body and mind, and between humans and nature.' Celebrations for International Yoga Day will take place across South Africa over the weekend of 21-22 June. Most of them are hosted by the local Indian consulates with involvement from different organisations. Some of the country's top landmarks will play host to events: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town: 21 June Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng: 21 June North Beach Amphitheatre, Durban: 21 June Union Buildings, Tshwane: 22 June Furthermore, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli will open the Durban event, which is organised by the Sivananda World Peace Foundation. He told The Deccan Herald: 'As we celebrate this special day, we acknowledge the profound impact that yoga has on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Yoga unites us, fosters peace and harmony, and inspires us to live in balance with ourselves and nature.' Those wanting to join in the events will find details on the social media accounts of their local Indian consulates. Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
2 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Cape Town celebrates International Day of Yoga with a focus on wellness
Speaking ahead of the Yoga event, Consul General of India, Ruby Jaspreet reflected on the origins and global relevance of the day. Cape Town will once again host a vibrant celebration of the International Day of Yoga on Saturday, with the Consulate General of India organising an event at the scenic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The 2025 celebration, themed 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health', marks the 11th edition of the global event, which continues to grow in scale and significance. Speaking ahead of the occasion, Consul General of India, Ruby Jaspreet reflected on the origins and global relevance of the day. 'The idea for an International Day of Yoga was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly with the highest number of co-sponsors ever—more than 175,' she said. June 21, the summer solstice and longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, was chosen for its spiritual and seasonal symbolism. Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning 'union,' is deeply rooted in India's ancient traditions, explained Jaspreet. 'It's a timeless practice that brings harmony between body and mind, and between humans and nature. In India, we see it as a holistic approach to wellness and spiritual growth, one that promotes the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—'the world is one family'.'
IOL News
2 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
International Day of Yoga comes to Kirstenbosch
Spring vygies in full flower at Kirstenbosch Gardens. Picture: Alice Notten, Kirstenbosch Spring vygies in full flower at Kirstenbosch Gardens. Picture: Alice Notten, Kirstenbosch Image: Picture: Alice Notten, Kirstenbosch THE International Day of Yoga organised by the Consulate General of India is expected to draw hundreds of participants, including yoga experts, fitness groups, meditation practitioners, and members of the Indian, local, and international communities on Saturday. The 11th edition, themed 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health' is expected to take place at the scenic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Speaking ahead of the occasion, Consul General of India, Ruby Jaspreet reflected on the origins and global relevance of the day. 'The idea for an International Day of Yoga was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly with the highest number of co-sponsors ever—more than 175,' she said. June 21, the summer solstice and longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, was chosen for its spiritual and seasonal symbolism. Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning 'union,' is deeply rooted in India's ancient traditions, explained Jaspreet. 'It's a timeless practice that brings harmony between body and mind, and between humans and nature. In India, we see it as a holistic approach to wellness and spiritual growth, one that promotes the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—'the world is one family'.' The Cape Town leg of this year's International Day of Yoga will have Health and Wellness MEC Mireille Wenger as the Chief Guest. The event will start at 9:00 AM with registration links shared on the Consulate's social media profiles. 'We invite everyone to join us in pledging for a healthier, more conscious lifestyle—for ourselves and for the Earth.' Cape Times
