New Delhi, May 22, 2025: The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with the Embassy of Ethiopia and with support from the Ministry of AYUSH, organised a special edition of Harit Yoga at the Ethiopian Embassy in New Delhi. Titled Coffee and Harit Yoga, the event served as a serene prelude to the upcoming International Day of Yoga 2025, beautifully blending wellness, sustainability, and cross-cultural camaraderie.
H.E. Ambassador Fesseha Shawel, Ambassador of Ethiopia to India, welcomed guests with a heartfelt message about peace and shared well-being. “Yoga is a precious gift from India to the world. It inspires unity and holistic health. Tonight’s event beautifully merges our traditions of hospitality, mindfulness, and sustainability,” he said. Adding further, he shared, “Through events like this, we build bridges that connect cultures and promote wellness as a global pursuit. The harmony of yoga and Ethiopia’s coffee tradition is a perfect example of that.”
Alphons Kannanthanam, former Union Minister, highlighted the power of coffee to energize, but reminded us that it is yoga that truly connects us to the universe. Embracing the idea that we are all part of a greater whole, he spoke as an animal lover and a strong advocate for peace over terror, urging the world to lean into compassion, consciousness, and unity.
H.H. Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji echoed the sentiment, praising PM Modi’s visionary leadership in placing International Yoga Day on the global map. He emphasized how yoga offers a positive, holistic approach to life, helping individuals cultivate inner peace and resilience.
As part of the Harit Yoga initiative, a special plantation drive was also conducted alongside the yoga session. All the dignitaries present actively participated in planting saplings, reinforcing the message of environmental consciousness and collective responsibility. The drive served as a reminder that yoga is not only a path to inner and physical well-being but also a commitment to nurturing the planet. Through Harit Yoga, successfully highlighted the deep connection between wellness and sustainability.
Other dignitaries attending the event included Shri Gurpreet Singh, Former OSD to AYUSH and Defence and Former Additional Private Secretary to the Minister of Tourism, Government of India, and Senior Consultant at HR REC Ltd., a Maharatna company; Mr. Garish Oberoi, Honorary Treasurer of FHRAI; Mr. Subhash Goyal, Founder Chairman of STIC Travel Group of Companies; Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of Aroma Magic; Dr. Sanjanaa Jon, filmmaker and philanthropist; and Mr. Lalit Madan, Yoga Trainer certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
Dr. Blossom Kochhar praised the blend of cultural rituals and wellness, commenting, “The fusion of yoga and Ethiopian coffee ceremonies demonstrates how diverse traditions can unite to enhance well-being.”
Mr. Subhash Goyal, Founder Chairman of STIC Travel Group of Companies, said, “Yoga and cultural diplomacy are powerful tools in positioning India as a global wellness hub. Events like this not only promote healthy living but also strengthen tourism ties and foster mutual understanding between nations.”
Filmmaker and philanthropist Dr. Sanjanaa Jon added, “Such events remind us of the deep connections that exist beyond borders, inspiring both personal and collective growth.”
Ms. Payal Swami, Assistant Secretary General, FHRAI, said, “Harit Yoga is our way of celebrating wellness that is rooted in both tradition and sustainability. By collaborating with the Ethiopian Embassy, we not only honour the spirit of yoga but also create meaningful cross-cultural exchanges that promote peace and shared growth.”
Held in the peaceful lawns of the Embassy, the gathering began with a guided yoga session led by Mr. Lalit Madan, a certified trainer recognized by the Ministry of AYUSH. His calming and accessible session helped attendees connect deeply with their breath and body, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Following the yoga practice, guests were treated to a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, renowned for its rich symbolism and warmth. This cultural ritual sparked engaging conversations around wellness tourism, sustainable living, and strengthening ties between India and Africa.
With its gentle energy and thoughtful curation, Coffee and Harit Yoga was a perfect reminder that wellness and diplomacy go hand in hand on the path toward a more conscious and connected world.
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