India’s yoga uniting Arab world not just on Yoga Day
LOVE FOR YOGA BRINGS THOUSANDS OF DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES TO DUBAI’S ZABEEL PARK
India’s yoga is now uniting people across the Arab world not just on Yoga Day, said some Arab participants at Dubai’s 4th International Yoga Day celebration yesterday.
Love for yoga united thousands of people of different nationalities at the event organised by the Indian Consulate at Zabeel Park. Clad in white T-shirts, the young and the old took to yoga mats to spread awareness about the benefits of yoga for physical and mental health.
Roula G., from Lebanon, said there is a big community of yoga practitioners in her country. “It doesn’t matter from which religion or belief you are to practise yoga. There is no discrimination. It is very important for countries which give importance to all religions and wellness of the people. We all are united for one common cause — harmony of the mind, body and soul.”
Solaf Azzam from Syria said yoga has been bringing love, peace and harmony in another side of the war-hit country that is not often reflected in the media. “It is a difficult situation there. But people are praying and trying to bring in peace. There is a positive environment and vibe which the media doesn’t always show.”
A yoga instructor at Dubai Ladies’ Club, Azzam said she was happy to participate in the event in Dubai. “Next year, I wish to do it in Syria.”
Saudi Arabia’s first certified yoga instructor Nouf Marwaai led yoga enthusiasts in performing common yoga protocol.
Consul-General of India in Dubai Vipul thanked the UAE authorities for supporting the Yoga Day celebrations. While senior government officials took part in the celebrations in various emirates, Dubai Municipality offered free entry to Zabeel Park to all participants.