People turned out in numbers this morning for the Curtain Raiser for International Day of Yoga 2026 promoting healthy lifestyles and well-being for people of all ages.
The event was organised by the High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre.
India's High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, says yoga is an age-old practice from India that unites the mind, body and soul, and plays an important role in maintaining good health and mental well-being.
Mehta says this year's theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing", highlights that yoga is for everyone regardless of age, gender, religion, race or background.
He says yoga is a preventive health practice that helps promote physical fitness, mental calmness and a healthier lifestyle, and encouraged people to make it part of their daily routine.
The High Commissioner says the Indian High Commission has been actively promoting yoga through programmes in schools and colleges across Suva, Nakasi and Nausori, and will continue these activities leading up to the main celebrations on 21st June.
He says the celebrations are not limited to the Central Division, with events also planned for Labasa, Sigatoka, Lautoka and Nadi.
Mehta adds that yoga activities are also being organised in Fiji's neighbouring Pacific countries, including Tonga, Tuvalu and Kiribati.
He says with increasing stress in people's lives, yoga can help improve well-being and also carries an important social message, particularly for young people.
The High Commissioner says yoga can help young people stay focused and avoid drugs while promoting positive and healthy lifestyles.
Mehta says interest in yoga continues to grow in Fiji and notes that this year's turnout was larger than in previous years.
He also encourages people to attend the free yoga sessions held every Saturday at the Fiji Museum.
Mehta says those interested in practising yoga regularly can also join daily classes from Monday to Friday at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, located at the High Commission of India, with an annual fee of $25.
He expresses his gratitude to members of the community from across Fiji for attending the Curtain Raiser event and encouraged everyone to embrace yoga as a way of leading a healthier and happier life.
