Yoga Day was celebrated in Christchurch with great enthusiasm by various community organisations, which hosted events of all levels to spread awareness and celebrate this ancient Indian practice.
One of the main events was organised by the Indian Social and Culture Club of Christchurch (ISCC) in association with the Indian High Commission.
The event held on June 18 at Riccarton Community Centre saw more than a hundred community members enjoying the Yoga sessions.
The event which started at 8.30am and went on till 1.30pm featured free sessions from experienced teachers designed for those who have never tried yoga before and for intermediate Yoga practitioners. The day began with a session for beginners by Anne Pauline, followed by Intermediate Yoga session by Natalie Pohlova.
Pavithra Ravi took over next, conducting a Beginner session followed by an Intermediate session. Pavithra, who, besides being a Yoga teacher, is also an accomplished Bharathanatyam dancer and trainer, took the final session of the day, which focussed on Breathing exercises and meditation. The packed session was highly appreciated for helping participants achieve a transcendent experience through a peaceful combination of music, breathing and meditation.
Many members and volunteers of the Indian Social and Cultural Club present on the day ensured the event went smoothly, with the ISCC Secretary, Anshu Parti, staying until the end and personally attending to all participants’ and teachers’ needs.
The International Yoga Day is celebrated formally on 21 June every year and has been since 2014. It is recognized by the United Nations General Assembly as a way to promote yoga around the world.
ISCC is one of the leading community organisations, involved in planning and hosting various events for Indians living in Christchurch. The Indian Society of Christchurch Club (ISCC) was formed in 1997 with an aim to preserve and promote Indian culture in Christchurch through music, dance, art, food and other traditions.
President of ISCC, Monty Parti said, “It was amazing to see the event supported by so many people. A lot of participants have requested us to conduct similar Yoga sessions on a regular basis and we are surely going to consider this request. I would like to thank all the trainers for their time and incredible sessions.”
ISCC’s next event will be Indian Midwinter Festival 2022 that will take place in August, followed by Diwali Festival 2022 which is the biggest Diwali event in South Island.
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