The southern Indian state of Kerala is resolutely defending its decision to include Zumba lessons as part of new anti-drug education initiatives, which has invited protests from both Hindu and Muslim groups. Recently, 14,000 state-run schools were instructed to integrate daily Zumba sessions to address escalating drug use among students. Critics argue this measure endorses a "foreign" cultural practice they find objectionable.
Religious leaders, such as representatives from the Samstha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, have publicly condemned the policy, asserting the dance and its associated attire clash with conservative cultural standards. Despite these protests, Kerala's education minister, V Sivankutty, insists education should not be intertwined with religious belief systems. He stated that participation in Zumba would remain optional and aimed solely at fostering healthy lifestyles.
Sivankutty added that while addressing the drug issue among youth, the government is committed to sponsorship of sporting and fitness activities, ultimately intending to benefit students' physical and mental well-being. The government has emphasized that Zumba sessions will comply with uniform guidelines, mitigating concerns of inappropriate attire.
Proponents of the program assert it serves to enhance both health and academic performance among students, while the administration remains undeterred by ongoing protests. In a diverse society, the challenge remains to strike a balance between promoting modern fitness practices and respecting traditional values.
Religious leaders, such as representatives from the Samstha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, have publicly condemned the policy, asserting the dance and its associated attire clash with conservative cultural standards. Despite these protests, Kerala's education minister, V Sivankutty, insists education should not be intertwined with religious belief systems. He stated that participation in Zumba would remain optional and aimed solely at fostering healthy lifestyles.
Sivankutty added that while addressing the drug issue among youth, the government is committed to sponsorship of sporting and fitness activities, ultimately intending to benefit students' physical and mental well-being. The government has emphasized that Zumba sessions will comply with uniform guidelines, mitigating concerns of inappropriate attire.
Proponents of the program assert it serves to enhance both health and academic performance among students, while the administration remains undeterred by ongoing protests. In a diverse society, the challenge remains to strike a balance between promoting modern fitness practices and respecting traditional values.
