Kerala Government Stands Firm on Zumba Classes Amidst Religious Protests

Despite protests from various religious organizations in Kerala, the state's government is determined to maintain its new initiative of incorporating Zumba classes into public school curriculums as part of an anti-drug campaign, emphasizing that participation remains optional.

The southern Indian state of Kerala is resolute in defending its recent decision to implement Zumba classes in state-run schools, even as protests arise from religious factions. This initiative, part of a broader anti-drug campaign launched by the government, aims to tackle the escalating challenge of drug abuse among schoolchildren. The initiative involves conducting daily Zumba sessions in approximately 14,000 public schools across the state.

These classes have faced significant opposition from both Hindu and Muslim groups, who argue that Zumba signifies a "cultural invasion." They are calling on parents and educators to reject the program, claiming it undermines their religious and moral frameworks. Although the protests have lessened, these groups are still vocal in their discontent.

V Sivankutty, the education minister for Kerala, maintains that the curriculum will remain unaffected by the protests, asserting that educational institutions should not be entangled with religious sentiments. "Those opposing this initiative are a greater threat than any substance abuse issue," Sivankutty stated firmly. He emphasized that while schools are encouraged to integrate Zumba into their schedules, attendance is entirely voluntary, allowing students the choice to abstain from participation.

The catalyst for this initiative was a comprehensive set of measures implemented to address the rising trend of drug usage among students, rolled out last month. This package includes heightened surveillance, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation initiatives, alongside the introduction of Zumba lessons. The directives stipulate that all public schools hire certified Zumba instructors to facilitate these sessions while ensuring the curriculum reflects the needs of both educators and students.

The Samstha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, a prominent Muslim clerical body, openly criticized the format of Zumba, deeming it "vulgar" due to its perceived implications of boys and girls dancing together in what they consider inappropriate attire. Its representative, Nasar Faizy Koodathai, stated, "Zumba contradicts our traditional values because of the clothing and the nature of the dancing."

Similarly, R Sanjayan from the Bharatiya Vichara Kendram, a right-wing organization, branded Zumba as an externally imposed practice, asserting it threatens indigenous cultural integrity while questioning the government’s motives behind promoting such activities.

Contrary to the allegations, the Kerala government insists that the primary goal is to initiate healthier lifestyles among students. The new guidelines also mandate that participants wear their school uniforms during Zumba classes to negate concerns regarding inappropriate attire. Sivankutty reiterated, "The objective is purely to foster a commitment to fitness and overall well-being, which positively influences students' academic and personal growth."