Durban’s iconic Amphitheatre on the Golden Mile burst into colour and calm on Sunday, 21 June, as more than 4 000 enthusiasts gathered for the United Nations–declared International Day of Yoga. Hosted by the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, the celebration blended culture, wellness and community spirit in a spectacular seaside setting.
In a historic moment, King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini made his first appearance at the festival, honouring the legacy of his late father, King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who had long supported the event. The monarch praised yoga as “the language of the body that can unite people” and formally appointed philanthropist Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu—the festival’s driving force and president of the host foundation—as Royal Ambassador for Social Cohesion and Economic Development. Ramlutchman has championed twelve global yoga days in South Africa, drawing dignitaries from royalty, government, religious communities and the diplomatic corps.
As the sun rose over Durban’s shoreline, participants flowed through the ancient postures and breathing techniques of India’s 5 000-year-old art of mental and physical fitness, turning the beachfront into a vibrant tapestry of movement, mindfulness and unity – a classic portrait of the sights and sounds of a city where the sun is worshipped.
TEXT AND PHOTOS: MARLAN PADAYACHEE
