FHRAI & Embassy of Ethiopia organises Coffee and Harit Yoga
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The dignitaries attending the event included Gurpreet Singh, Former OSD to AYUSH; Garish Oberoi, FHRAI; Subhash Goyal, Founder Chairman of STIC; Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of Aroma Magic; Dr. Sanjanaa Jon, filmmaker and philanthropist; and Lalit Madan, Yoga Trainer.
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.
Fesseha Shawel, Ambassador of Ethiopia to India, said, “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, said, “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.”
Dr. Lokesh Muni praised PM Modi’s emphasised how yoga offers a positive, holistic approach to life, helping individuals cultivate inner peace and resilience.
Other dignitaries attending the event included 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; Garish Oberoi, Treasurer of FHRAI; Subhash Goyal, Founder Chairman of STIC Travel Group of Companies; Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of Aroma Magic; Dr. Sanjanaa Jon, filmmaker and philanthropist; and Lalit Madan, Yoga Trainer certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
Dr. 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.”
Goyal, Founder Chairman of STIC, 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.”
Dr. Jon added, “Such events remind us of the deep connections that exist beyond borders, inspiring both personal and collective growth.”
Swami, FHRAI, said, "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 Embassy, the gathering began with a guided yoga session led by Lalit Madan, a certified trainer recognised by the Ministry of AYUSH. Following the yoga practice, guests were treated to a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. A plantation drive was also held with the participation of all the presented dignitaries.