Cape Town celebrates International Day of Yoga with a focus on wellness

Cape Town will once again host a vibrant celebration of the International Day of Yoga on Saturday, with the Consulate General of India organising an event at the scenic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The 2025 celebration, themed “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, marks the 11th edition of the global event, which continues to grow in scale and significance.

Speaking ahead of the occasion, Consul General of India, Ruby Jaspreet reflected on the origins and global relevance of the day. “The idea for an International Day of Yoga was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly with the highest number of co-sponsors ever—more than 175,” she said. June 21, the summer solstice and longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, was chosen for its spiritual and seasonal symbolism.

Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “union,” is deeply rooted in India’s ancient traditions, explained Jaspreet. “It’s a timeless practice that brings harmony between body and mind, and between humans and nature. In India, we see it as a holistic approach to wellness and spiritual growth, one that promotes the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—‘the world is one family’.”

In 2016, UNESCO recognised Yoga as an element of the world’s intangible cultural heritage, affirming its global significance and widespread appeal. Today, yoga is practiced across cultures and continents, with millions embracing its mental, physical and spiritual benefits.

According to the Consul General, the Government of India—through its embassies and consulates worldwide—has played a pivotal role in expanding yoga’s global presence. “From iconic landmarks to local community halls, yoga events are being hosted everywhere. Here in South Africa, the High Commission of India, Pretoria as well as the Indian Consulates in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban have hosted numerous public yoga celebrations.”

The Cape Town leg of this year’s International Day of Yoga will have Western Cape Government's Minister of Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, as the Chief Guest. The event will start at 9:00 AM with registration links shared on the Consulate's social media profiles. The celebration is expected to draw hundreds of participants, including yoga experts, fitness groups, meditation practitioners, and members of the Indian, local, and international communities. With Cape Town’s natural beauty as a backdrop, Jaspreet believes this year’s celebration will serve as a powerful reminder of the connection between physical wellbeing and mental health.

Cape Argus