In a vibrant fusion of wellness and history, the Navsari Municipal Corporation (NMC) celebrated the 11^th International World Yoga Day, on 20^th June, 2025, by hosting yoga camps at seven of the city’s most treasured heritage sites. Under the banner of ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, the event drew hundreds of participants to Parsi heritage properties and birthplace museums.

Led by NMC Commissioner Dev Chaudhary (IAS), the initiative aimed at promoting physical, mental and spiritual well-being, as well as shining a spotlight on Navsari’s rich cultural tapestry. Sessions unfolded across a range of venues: Sir Cawasji J. Zoroastrian Madrasa School, Tata Boys School, Jamshedji Tata Birthplace Museum in Dasturwad, Sheth R.J.J. School, Sir J.J. 1^st Baronet Museum at Vatcha Mohalla, the Scout and Guard Headquarters (funded by the Parsi Chowksi of old Gaekwadi Navsari), and Lunsikui Ground (donated by patron Seth Shirvoi). School principals, heritage-site custodians, Gujarat Yoga Board instructors, and eager students collaborated to host each sunrise session.

In a landmark move, NMC also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to conserve and revive Navsari’s historic fabric. Regular heritage-walks and guided tours – pioneered years ago by Dr. Shernaz Cama of ParZor Foundation – will soon become a fixture of this cultural-wellness program.

As yoga mats rolled up beneath centuries-old walls, Navsari residents and visitors alike caught a glimpse of the future: a city where health, history and heritage breathe together. With renewed conservation efforts underway, this ‘Sanskari Nagari’ promises more preserved Parsi fire temples, restored museums and living stories for generations to explore.

[Courtesy: Ruzbeh Umrigar]