There’s a reason this year’s International Yoga Day celebration in PNG will stand out.
There’s a reason this year’s International Yoga Day celebration in PNG will stand out.
Since it’s commemoration in 2015, the celebrations this time will be organised and led by a Papua New Guinea team.
Yoga – an ancient Hindu discipline, accepted worldwide for its health benefits, was introduced into the country in 2012.
The easy-to-do workout very quickly became common within communities, attracting many youths.
This year, founder Fazilah Bazari says a committee has been formed to coordinate the event, led by Jackson Kiap – the lead Yoga teacher.
According to Kiap, the day will commence with the usual Walk for Life Program.
All will assemble at Murray Barracks and walk the freeway to Ela Beach, where a big yoga session will take place at the Ela Murray school field.
This program will include speeches and performances from some yoga practising communities, including Bomana Juvenile inmates.
“Fazilah has put a lot of trust in us when our families have regarded us as outcasts. She has changed us and has seen us change with time. To put such a responsibility in our hands is such an honour and a challenge I accept. We have to show her that you trusted since day one, we can make it happen,” he said.
Their mentor, for the first time since the commemoration, will not be present for the International Yoga Day celebrations. But she has expressed confidence.
“I am confident it will be an awesome day for everyone. Mostly, I am happy that the Bomana Juvenile Inmates will be allowed out again to perform and celebrate the Yoga day too,” she said.
Kiap wished to see more Papua New Guineans to participate - show support that local youth are taking leadership in disciplined areas such as yoga.
Those who wish to participate only for the yoga session – the program will be from 8am – 10am Sunday at the Ella Murray school field, Ela Beach.