The Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly participated in a Sunrise Yoga Programme to celebrate the arrival of the Indian Navy Ship Tushil at the Port of Durban’s N Shed Terminal on Thursday, 30 January 2025. Attending this event formed part of DUT’s initiatives of promoting fitness among staff and students, to improve mental health, increase productivity and enhancing their overall well-being.
The event aimed to promote yoga and its benefits as a wellness initiative, while also offering Durban residents a unique opportunity to tour the Indian Navy Ship Tushil. The ship’s visit symbolised the strong and friendly ties between India and South Africa, fostering greater cultural exchange.
Naressa Chetty from the Consulate General of India in Durban noted that Indian Navy Ships regularly visit Port of Durban, facilitating bilateral exchanges between India and South Africa. To enhance community engagement, the Consulate General of India in Durban, in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality, organised various public outreach activities. These included yoga sessions, onboard ship tours, educational visits for school children, and a “Run for Unity” programme, all designed to foster greater understanding and friendship between the two nations.
“DUT’s enthusiastic participation was a key factor in the success of this initiative, which aims to further strengthen the bonds between India and South Africa,” said Chetty.
Participants at the Sunrise Yoga Programme.
She also revealed that the event’s standout moments included a mega yoga participation of about 200 people, anonboard tour for 300 school children, and a prestigious visit by H.E. the High Commissioner and the Admiral of the South African Navy to the ship.
Yoga instructor, Kugan Naidoo expressed his delight at the overwhelming success of the yoga session, noting that a large number of Durban residents turned out to participate in the celebration and prioritise their fitness. “It was wonderful to see the community come together like this,” he said.
Naidoo also expressed his gratitude for receiving a prestigious Certificate of Appreciation, recognising their dedication and contributions to the successful event.
Amanda Gwamande, a gym assistant from DUT, showed her support for the Consulate General of India in Durban by participating in their sunrise yoga session.
“It was my first time attending a yoga session, but the instructor’s gentle guidance and soothing voice made me feel incredibly calm and focused. I am looking forward to attending another session, as it was truly rejuvenating for me,” she added.
According to Gwamande, as a gym assistant at DUT, she prioritises fitness and wellness and was overjoyed to observe people from Durban enthusiastically participating in exercise and weight reduction initiatives. Gwamande observed that the impressive attendance was a testament to Durban’s increasing recognition of the vital role physical activity and wellness play in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“I was thrilled to be interviewed by Radio Hindvani, and what made the experience even more memorable was the unexpected tour of the ship. As it was my first time on board, I was struck by the beauty, cleanliness, and the professionalism of the commanders. They ensured a seamless experience, providing clear instructions to avoid any inconvenience to the residents of Durban,” she explained.
The yoga programme was a resounding success, exceeding expectations with its uplifting atmosphere and rejuvenating exercise. Throughout the entire experience, from the yoga session to the fascinating ship tour, the participants beamed with joy, clearly delighted by the unique combination of wellness and adventure.
Pictured: DUT staff and students at the Sunrise Yoga Programme.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
