SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION B-18, Vasant Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi - 110057
Tel.: 91-11-26149411-14,
Fax: 26143605
Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu Sivananda World Peace Foundation, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Message from the South African High Commissioner to India, Bangladesh and Nepal Prof Anil Sooklal On the Occasion of the 11th International Day of Yoga, hosted by the Sivananda World Peace Foundation As the South African High Commissioner to India, Bangladesh and Nepal it is my honour and privilege to extend warmest greetings to the Sivananda World Peace Foundation on the occasion of the 11th International Day of Yoga being celebrated in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Yoga is an ancient science rooted in the teachings of India's great saints and spiritual masters,
as preserved in the sacred Hindu texts. It is much more than physical movement; it is a discipline that harmonizes the body, mind, and spirit through a combination of postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), relaxation, and meditation. Over the centuries, what began as a sacred practice has evolved into a universal language of well-being,
transcending borders, cultures, and religions. I am deeply inspired by the remarkable work of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation in advancing yoga, peace, and social harmony in South Africa. The Foundation's tireless efforts to make yoga accessible to people from all walks of life is truly commendable. Through its inclusive initiatives, the Foundation is fostering unity and encouraging individuals to lead holistic, value-based lives, thereby contributing to peace and harmony within our communities and our nation. I particularly appreciate the Foundation's dedication not only to spreading the practice of yoga but also to its philanthropic endeavours. This commitment echoes the ancient Indian philosophy that underpins yoga and aligns with the vision of the Government of India, which has long championed yoga as a tool for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional resilience.
The Sivananda World Peace Foundation stands as a shining example of how the practice of yoga can unify people and build bridges of peace and understanding. As we celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga, I encourage everyone to embrace this transformative practice. Let us unite in the spirit of peace, wellness, and global harmony. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Sivananda World Peace Foundation for hosting this year's celebrations.
As the first South African of Indian origin to represent our beloved country in Bharat (India) as High Commissioner, I have witnessed firsthand the profound unifying effects of yoga. Yoga was elevated as a Global observance when the United Nations declared 21 June annually as the International Day of Yoga in December 2014 through the efforts of Prime Minister Modi. In a highly fractured and divided world the Global observance of UN International Yoga Day is a welcome demonstration that humanity can unite under the banner of peace, harmony,
co- operation and mutual coexistence in which Yoga symbolises creating a better and more inclusive and just world for all who live in our beautiful Mother Earth. As South Africans we are pleased to join in celebrating the International Day of Yoga as a symbol of fostering global peace, harmony and the coexistence of humanity as one family. Ultimately, yoga is a sacred path toward universal peace which is a journey toward the inner balance of the mind, body and soul and the ultimate union with the Divine. With warm regards and in the spirit of peace and unity,
Prof. Anil Sooklal
High Commissioner of South Africa to India, Bangladesh and Nepal