Prayers were held before people of different faiths took part in a yoga class for Older People’s Week.

Ilford Recorder: Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre,Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre, (Image: Archant)

Former GP Dr Sudarshan Kapur, 76, of The Drive, South Woodford, led the class before participants had the chance to sing songs and take part in garba dancing – a traditional Indian dance.

More than 60 people took part in the event at the Panjabi Centre, Ley Street, Ilford, yesterday.

“It went very well,” said Dr Kapur. “It was marvellous.

Ilford Recorder: Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre,Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre, (Image: Archant)

“We started with breathing exercises and then a prayer and people recited poems.”

The health-conscious pensioner said the event was about staying healthy and making friends.

“Everyone was very happy,” she said. “People were asking us to do more events to help people mix together.”

Ilford Recorder: Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre,Retired GP and yoga teacher Sudarshan Kapur, holding a yoga/singing/dancing event. at the Panjabi Centre, (Image: Archant)

She added: “It’s very important to celebrate the week – to let people know that age is no bar to your activity.

“We’re not sitting at home depressed – we’re doing so much for our health and wellbeing and we’re asking people to join us.”

Classes are held weekly. Call 074 3831 9194 to find out more.