A STATE of the art peace, yoga and wellness centre is to be built in Groutville, on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast.
A sod turning ceremony took place on Tuesday at the site, next to the Mvoti Toll Plaza, where the Sivananda World Peace Foundation International Peace, Yoga & Wellness Centre is to be built.
Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, was joined by Unyazi LweZulu, leader of the Shembe church, at the ceremony which marked the commencement of the construction of the facility envisioned to foster peace, wellness, and spiritual growth.
Ishwar Ramlutchman, president of the foundation, said their aim is to build the Sivananda International Peace, Yoga and Wellness Centre.
"Swami Sivananda, through Swami Sahajananda, built over 300 schools in KwaZulu-Natal.
"He said the foundation fosters unity and social cohesion among people.
"We also promote yoga, which is physical exercise for the mind, body and soul. This centre is going to serve the masses of the community together with a soup kitchen, museum and classrooms for children who don't have electricity at home and need a place to study," said Ramlutchman.
Buthelezi thanked the foundation and said he believes it will be a world class facility that will restore hope and strengthen followers.
"This occasion marks not just the commencement of a construction project, but the laying of a foundation for something far greater – a beacon of peace, a sanctuary for wellness, and a centre for spiritual growth that will undoubtedly enrich the lives of countless individuals.
"The vision of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, to cultivate inner peace and promote harmony in our world, resonates deeply with the values we hold dear in KwaZulu-Natal. As a province known for its rich cultural diversity and its resilient spirit, we understand the vital importance of initiatives that foster understanding, compassion, and goodwill amongst people from all walks of life," he said.
Buthelezi said the establishment of the centre represents a significant development for the province.
"It promises to be a place where individuals can seek solace, learn ancient practices of yoga and meditation, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace.
"Furthermore, it holds the potential to attract visitors from across the globe, boosting our local economy and showcasing the beauty and spiritual richness of KwaZulu-Natal. We are confident that this centre will flourish and become a significant landmark, contributing positively to the social, spiritual, and economic landscape of our province," he said.
Buthelezi said the ceremony was significant as it brought together Unyazi LweZulu and the Sivananda World Peace Foundation.
"This collaboration speaks volumes about the willingness of different religious and spiritual traditions to engage with one another, to find common ground, and to work together for the betterment of humanity.
"This spirit of interfaith harmony is not only commendable but essential in building a cohesive and peaceful society. It sends a powerful message that despite our diverse paths, we are united in our shared aspiration for a world filled with peace and understanding," said Buthelezi.
He paid tribute to the late Mangosuthu Buthelezi for fostering close ties and mutual respect between the Zulu nation and various religious groups.
"His unwavering belief in dialogue and understanding across cultural and spiritual divides has paved the way for initiatives like this, where different traditions can come together in the pursuit of peace and shared values," said Buthelezi.