Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, left, with His Holiness Unyazi LweZulu Shembe.
Image: Supplied
His Holiness Unyazi LweZulu Shembe, the Spiritual Leader of the Nazareth Baptist Church (Shembe), an honorary patron of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, has given his blessings and support for the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY 2026).
"The endorsement reflects a shared commitment to unity, healing, and social cohesion across KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa through the practice of yoga and the traditional values of Ubuntu," said Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, a member of the Zulu Royal Household and the founding president of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation.
Mabheka Zulu said during the sod turning ceremony at the Sivananda World Peace Foundation International Peace, Yoga and Wellness Centre in Groutville, LweZulu Shembe was honoured with being the honorary patron of the foundation.
“His Holiness’s Blessings and his support for IDY 2026 strengthens our message that yoga is a universal practice for peace that transcends culture and faith,” said Mabheka Zulu.
“It reflects the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that IDY 2026 seeks to embody.”
IDY 2026 will be held on June 21 from 9am at the Durban Amphitheatre.
The theme is: Yoga for Wellness, Wisdom and Global Peace.
The event will bring together communities, faith leaders, cultural groups, and the public for a day of yoga, breathwork, and dialogue centered on wellness, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
IDY 2026 forms part of a broader program of precursor activities, including an yoga event at Jabula Beach at iSimangaliso Wetland Park on Sunday.
The Sivananda World Peace Foundation promotes yoga, wellness, and service to underprivileged communities across KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa. Its work integrates physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing with social upliftment and cultural.