'No Gym, Do Yoga': Maharashtra BJP MLA's Advice To Hindu Women Stirs Controversy

Last Updated:October 16, 2025, 16:57 IST

Padalkar told a gathering that gyms are part of a “racket” and warned women against trusting gym trainers and staff

News18

Maharashtra BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar has triggered fresh controversy after urging Hindu women and girls not to go to the gym, saying they should practise yoga at home instead.

Speaking at a public event on Tuesday, Padalkar told a gathering that gyms are part of a “racket" and warned women against trusting gym trainers and staff. A video of his speech has also gone viral on social media.

“This gym and all is a big racket. You all don’t know it," Padalkar said in the video, urging Hindu women to practise yoga at home instead.

“I urge all the girls and women from the Hindu community, please don’t go to the gym. I join my hands and kneel on your legs, but please don’t go. Do yoga at home if needed. You don’t know the background of the trainers or gym staff. At least verify it first."

His comments have sparked widespread criticism on social media. As of now, neither the BJP nor Padalkar himself has issued any clarification or response to the backlash.

This is not the first time Sangli-based BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar has made headlines for controversial remarks. Known for his fiery speeches, the Jat leader has often stirred debate with his statements on sensitive social and religious issues.

Earlier this year, in July, thousands from the Christian community gathered at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan in protest against Padalkar’s earlier speech from June 17.

In that speech, he allegedly offered monetary rewards, between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 11 lakh, for attacks on Christian priests and missionaries involved in what he called “forceful conversions." He was also accused of using highly provocative language targeting Christian religious leaders. His remarks were condemned by leaders across the political spectrum and by rights groups.

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News politics 'No Gym, Do Yoga': Maharashtra BJP MLA's Advice To Hindu Women Stirs Controversy

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