Popera star Yulia FROM TRAGEDY TO SPIRITUALITY

‘I’d rather be sweeping streets than leaving my children’

Coming from an abusive upbringing, it’s no surprise that Russianborn Kiwi pop-opera star Yulia Townsend has turned her back on a traditional lifestyle. The single mum-ofthree now lives as part of the Sri Chinmoy community in Christchurch, following the teachings of the Indian spiritual leader who established meditation centres across the world.

The singer doesn’t care about material things – she just wants her kids to. “You would not equal Yulia to glamour or luxury.”