By Amin Kef Sesay
The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga in Freetown on Friday, 21 June 2024 at the Sierra Palms Hotel. The event was organized under this year’s International Day of Yoga theme: “Yoga for Self and Society”, which highlights the vital role of Yoga in enhancing the well being of self and the society as a whole, promoting health and peace worldwide. This year Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, presided over the celebration of Yoga at Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.
After the welcome of guests/participants by High Commission’s officials, Charge d’ Affaires a.i., Neeraj Kumar Saini addressed the gathering. Mr. C. J. Ramchandani enlightened on the importance of Yoga and meditation in day-to-day life. This was followed by performance of Asanas based on Common Yoga Protocol by all the invitees present at the event under the guidance of Yoga Instructors- Mr. Madhusagar Singh, Mr. Edward Kekura and Mr. Alfred Saffa.
The event organized in association with various Yoga Institutes in Freetown (Sierra Leone) namely- Hatha Yoga Salone, This IsYoga, and Diya Yoga and Fitness Studio was attended by a large number of Indian diaspora and local community members. The partner companies included- Odhav Multi Industries (SL) Ltd, Jaidev Stores, Afro International, Kayhira, Satguru Travels and Vult Payment App.
Yoga is a five thousand year old tradition from ancient India that combines physical, mental and spiritual pursuits to achieve harmony of the body and the mind. Yoga is an effective tool for holistic living and can help us promote sustainable lifestyles.
In 2014, on the proposal of India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, the UN General Assembly declared 21 June to be celebrated as the International Day of Yoga. Since then, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated all over the world every year and various events attract participants in a very large number. Sierra Leone has always been an important partner of India to promote and celebrate the International Day of Yoga since its inception.
