In a bold move, the Kerala government has announced that over 14,000 state-run schools will incorporate daily Zumba sessions into their curriculum as part of an initiative to combat rising drug use among students. However, this decision faced backlash from various religious organizations, who argue that the dance form represents a cultural invasion and contradicts moral values.
While protests erupted, the government maintained that it will not abandon the program, asserting that education and religion should remain separate. Education Minister V Sivankutty emphasized the optional nature of the classes, stating students could choose to participate or not. Protests initially gained traction following a series of measures announced last month aimed at tackling drug issues in schools, which include increased surveillance and rehabilitation programs.
Opposition from organizations such as the Samstha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, which represents Muslim clerics, asserted that the dance attire and mixed-gender classes were inappropriate. Similarly, the Bharatiya Vichara Kendram, a Hindu intellectual group, condemned the initiative as a foreign imposition that undermines Indian traditions.
Despite these claims, the government has defended the program, clarifying that students will wear school uniforms during Zumba classes. They argue that such exercise can promote physical health, mental well-being, and even boost academic performance, encouraging a balanced and active lifestyle among youth.
