Ahmedabad, 09 June (H.S.): Zambian educator Chitula Albert could scarcely have imagined that his modest initiative would one day reach the global stage. Today, however, his efforts are not only giving Yogasana a new identity in Zambia but are also emerging as a remarkable example of the expansion of this traditional Indian discipline across Africa.

The inaugural World Yogasana Championship, held at EKA Arena in Ahmedabad, bore witness to this transformation, as athletes from Zambia and several other African nations participated, demonstrating that Yogasana is steadily evolving into a global competitive sport beyond geographical boundaries.

A Journey Inspired by an Indian Mentor

Albert’s introduction to yoga dates back to the late 1980s, when a person of Indian origin living in his region taught him the fundamentals of the practice. What began as a simple learning experience eventually became a defining direction in his life.

After becoming a teacher and later a vice-principal, Albert realised that yoga could serve as an effective tool for improving children's health, discipline and mental well-being. He began conducting small yoga sessions at his school and gradually incorporated them into physical education activities.

The journey, however, was far from easy. Yoga was initially viewed with skepticism in the local community, with many perceiving it as a religious practice rather than a fitness and wellness activity. Resources were also severely limited.

Without access to yoga mats, Albert stitched together old sacks and pieces of cloth to create makeshift mats for students to practise on.

A Movement That Spread Across the Region

The initiative began with only five students. Over time, interest among children grew steadily, and the programme soon expanded beyond the boundaries of the school.

Utilising digital platforms, Albert started broadcasting regular yoga sessions, enabling students from different parts of Zambia to participate and learn.

A significant turning point came in 2020, when a woman of Indian origin donated yoga mats for the schoolchildren. The support proved transformative for a movement that had until then relied entirely on limited local resources.

Government Recognition and Organised Growth

In the years that followed, Yogasana continued to gain popularity throughout Zambia. More schools joined the movement, and efforts were made to develop it as a structured sport.

With support from the Indian community, an institutional framework was established, and in 2022, Zambia’s Yogasana organisation received official recognition. Subsequently, regular National Yogasana Championships began to be organised across the country from 2024 onward.

The participation of government officials in the 2025 National Championship further strengthened the initiative and enhanced its credibility.

A Powerful Presence at the World Championship

At the first World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad, Zambia was represented by an 18-member contingent. The travel and participation expenses of six athletes were sponsored by families of Indian origin.

Zambia secured a total of six medals during the competition. Young athlete Nia Vijayvarjiya emerged as one of the standout performers, winning three silver medals and earning special recognition.

The event was not limited to Zambia alone. Athletes from Rwanda, Niger, Chad, Sierra Leone, Lesotho, Uganda and Tanzania also took part. Many of these participants had first encountered Yogasana while pursuing educational opportunities in India.

Mahamadou Sanoussi Issia, a representative from Niger, noted that International Day of Yoga celebrations have been gaining popularity in his country and that Yogasana competitions are now beginning to be organised there as well.

From India’s Ancient Tradition to a Global Sport

The World Yogasana Championship has clearly demonstrated that yoga is no longer confined to health, wellness and lifestyle practices. It is increasingly establishing itself as a competitive international sport.

Chitula Albert’s story has become a symbol of this transformation. What began on mats fashioned from pieces of burlap has now reached the world stage. Throughout this journey, India’s cultural heritage, the support of Indian communities abroad and growing global engagement have served as powerful pillars in promoting Yogasana as an international sporting discipline.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar