Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
THE Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Bramha Kumar, yesterday led scores of Bulawayo residents in celebrating the International Day of Yoga, turning the Old Mutual Cricket Academy grounds in Suburbs into a vibrant space of movement, mindfulness and cultural exchange.
The commemorative funfair was part of a series of nationwide events being held under the global theme: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” — a call to reconnect humanity with the planet through physical and mental wellness.
Recognising yoga’s universal value, the United Nations in 2014 proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. The annual celebration, now in its 11th edition in Zimbabwe, aims to raise awareness about the holistic benefits of yoga.
“For India, this day holds immense significance. In 2014, we moved a resolution at the UN to commemorate Yoga Day. Only 12 countries opposed it, mistakenly thinking it was a religious event. But yoga is not about religion, it is a tool for peace, balance and connecting with the inner self,” said
The Ambassador emphasised that yoga transcends national and religious boundaries, saying: “Yoga is not tied to Hinduism. Physical exercise and spirituality are two different things. Yoga connects the human body with the Supreme Being, offering peace of mind and improving health,” said Amb Kumar.
The Bulawayo event brought together people from all walks of life, including Government officials and residents keen to embrace yoga’s calming influence in a world increasingly marked by stress and disconnection.
Amb Kumar said this year’s yoga celebrations are being hosted in various cities including Chitungwiza, Rusape, Mutare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, culminating on 21 June at the Indian Embassy in Harare with an expected turnout of over 300 people.
“Yoga is our way of connecting with our Zimbabwean sisters and brothers. Even countries that initially resisted now embrace it. It’s a global language of wellness,” said Amb Kumar.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube, in her keynote remarks, reflected on her time at the Bulawayo City Council, where she engaged in community mental wellness activities, including yoga.
“We used to work with people struggling with mental health, and yoga played a big role in their recovery. With continued collaboration, we can scale up these activities and attract bigger crowds in future events,” she said
Bulawayo Ward 2 Councillor Adrian Moyo, who represented Mayor David Coltart, described the session as both therapeutic and eye-opening.
“Yoga challenged me physically and mentally, especially with focus and balance. It was also a meaningful cultural exchange. In these modern times where mental health issues are rising, such activities offer safe spaces for healing and reflection,” he said.
The session was hosted by Brahma Kumaris, a global spiritual movement focused on inner transformation and values-based living. Its Zimbabwe co-ordinator, Sister Urvashi Vitals, led participants in a guided meditation session and explained the deeper essence of yoga.
“Yoga is not just about physical postures. It is a powerful tool for mental clarity, stress relief, and emotional strength. Raja Yoga, in particular, helps us reconnect with our true selves,” she said.
Sister Urvashi said Brahma Kumaris offers free courses in Raja Yoga meditation, stress-free living, positive thinking, and anger management, which are all crucial in today’s fast-paced society.
