Despite protests from various organizations, Kerala officials assert that Zumba classes in public schools will promote health and well-being among students.
Kerala Government Stands Firm on Zumba Classes in Schools Amid Protests
Kerala Government Stands Firm on Zumba Classes in Schools Amid Protests
Controversy arises as religious groups in Kerala oppose dance program aimed at combating drug use.
The Kerala government has reaffirmed its commitment to introducing Zumba classes in public schools, following protests from certain religious groups who view the initiative as a "cultural invasion." As part of a recent anti-drug strategy, the initiative will see 14,000 state-run schools incorporating daily Zumba sessions into their routines. However, the decision has faced backlash from Hindu and Muslim organizations, which claim that the dance conflicts with their religious values and cultural principles.
These groups are calling for parents and teachers to boycott the program, asserting that it contradicts their moral teachings. The protests have waned, but dissent continues against the state's policy. Education Minister V. Sivankutty defended the program, emphasizing that education should remain free from religious influence and that those opposing the initiative contribute more harm than the drug issues it seeks to address. "Classes will be optional, and students may choose to opt out if desired," he affirmed.
The controversy began when the Kerala government unveiled a series of measures to tackle rising drug use among students last month—including enhanced campus surveillance, awareness initiatives, and rehabilitation schemes alongside Zumba classes. Schools are required to hire qualified Zumba instructors for these daily sessions, while ensuring curriculum and scheduling accommodate students and teachers alike.
Opposition to the classes has come strongly from influential groups like the Samstha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, which manages numerous religious schools. Spokesperson Nasar Faizy Koodathai criticized Zumba for promoting "vulgar" dress and interactions between boys and girls during lessons. The Bharatiya Vichara Kendram, a right-wing group of Hindu intellectuals, echoed similar sentiments, branding Zumba as an unwanted foreign influence that undermines traditional values. Their Director, R. Sanjayan, branded the initiative "malicious" and called upon families to resist the imposition of Zumba on students.
In response to these claims, the Kerala government has firmly rejected all allegations of ulterior motives. Minister Sivankutty reiterated that the initiative's goal is to promote fitness and healthy lifestyles amongst children. He ensured that students would wear their school uniforms during Zumba classes, aiming to dispel concerns over inappropriate attire. "Engagement in physical activity is essential for mental and physical health, and can enhance academic success and personal growth among children," he concluded.
