International Yoga Day (IYD) was observed by practising yogis in Belair Community Centre on Wednesday evening in a free community class held by Explore Yoga. The class brought together persons of various skill levels under the guidance of St. Maartener Rikita Budhrani, a certified instructor.
Regular classes are held at the centre, but Budhrani decided to open up this one to the community to mark the day. The Indian Merchants Association (IMA) and the Association of Indians in St. Martin ASIM will also hold a free yoga event to mark the day on Sunday in the Francois Matthew Auditorium in Galisbay from 10:00am to 12:00pm. IYD was conceived by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in 2015. On December 11, 2014, the 193-member UN General Assembly approved by consensus; a resolution establishing June 21 as “International Day of Yoga.” The day has been observed on St. Maarten/St. Martin since its inception. (Rajesh Chintaman photo)
