BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Indian community on St. Kitts and others joined more than 190 countries across the world in celebrating the first-ever International Day of Yoga.
Individuals of Indian descent, Yoga instructors and others met at the Tiranga Restaurant, Royal St. Kitts Hotel, for a ceremony to mark the historic occasion.
Held in collaboration with the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center, the High Commission of India organised the event which was not only aimed at celebrating International Day of Yoga but also at spreading awareness of the Hindu spiritual discipline that attempts to connect the body and soul.
Consular Officer Shri Y. K. Batra explained that the observance became possible after the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Damodardas Modi, presented a proposal to the United National General Assembly which was ratified by 177 votes.
“With this, India’s invaluable heritage had become the world’s invaluable heritage today…”
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Representative to the United Nations, the Hon. Sam T. Condor indicated that India is an ally of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the “International Day of Yoga celebration represents another chapter in our bilateral and multilateral teamwork, of which I am pleased to be a part”.
He commended the Indian Government for “promoting this lifestyle enhancing concept”, noting that he is “very pleased that St. Kitts and Nevis has joined in the global commemoration of this day”.
Sister Alana of the local Brahma Kumaris schooled the gathering on the highest form of Yoga, Raj Yoga, which is communication with one’s inner self…the higher being.
The highlight of the event was the demonstration of Yoga postured by Yoga Instructor Salisha Brisbane, who has been practicing Yoga for the past 17 years, and Kristin Macias as well as Chris Kaup who has been doing the same for the past 20 and 14 years respectively.
The trio executed several Yoga poses including Pranayama, Tadasana (palm tree), Vrikshasana (tree), Pad-Hast-Asana (hands to feet), Trikon-Asana (triangle), Bhujanasana (cobra), Sasankasane (hare posture) and Vakra-asana (spinal twist).
Tokens of gratitude were presented to the three demonstrators as well as the Hon. Condor.
