Embassy of India celebrated the 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on 21 June at the embassy’s iconic red sandstone building in Sha’ab area. The event, which showcased Indian culture and heritage, began with a traditional dance and an ancient Indian martial arts display. This was followed by a seminar on yoga attended by people from multifaceted backgrounds. An exhibition of traditional Indian customs accompanied the seminar, including a Herbal Plants and Ayurveda Exhibition. The Embassy has been organizing various events, online and offline, in the run-up to the IDY for the last two months, including regular yoga classes and sessions.
Indian Ambassador H.E. Sibi George began his speech on the occasion with an acknowledgement of the 8th International Day of Yoga and Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav (75th anniversary of India’s independence). He highlighted the importance of yoga, stating that it is “a refined product of Indian civilization and is an invaluable gift of ancient India to the world.”
When asked about the relevance of Yoga in Indian culture, he pointed out that yoga is a tradition that began thousands of years ago and is India’s contribution to the world. He further underscored the popularity of yoga in Kuwait and all over the world, while noting that Kuwaitis have embraced yoga as an athletic endeavour, and that it provides “Peace and Harmony.”
The Ambassador also addressed the recent controversy over yoga in the Middle East, and explained, “Yoga is not a religion; it is a way of life that aims towards a healthy mind in a healthy body. Yoga does not discriminate; everyone can practice it, regardless of their strength, age or ability.” He added that the benefits of yoga include having “the innate power to connect people and societies… it transcends boundaries and brings everyone together, and in its true essence is a unifying force.”
The ambassador concluded by stating: “My respect and gratitude to those individuals and organizations who have been working and contributing towards further strengthening the long-standing dynamic partnership between India and Kuwait.”
By Fatima Al Attar
Special Correspondent