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Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had suggested the idea of introducing Zumba in schools to ease stress and make students more active. (Photo: Thinkstock)
Some religious groups in Kerala have raised concerns about the CPI(M)-led government’s plan to introduce Zumba, a dance-based fitness programme, in schools. They argued that the “Western import” would have an adverse effect on morality.
The state Education Department recently decided to teach Zumba in all schools as part of efforts to drive students away from drug abuse and violence, and to improve their physical and mental fitness. Last month, ahead of the beginning of the current academic year, the Education Department had given training to teachers as part of their annual refresher programmes.
However, Abdul Samad Pookkottor, a prominent cleric belonging to SAMASTHA, a clerical body known for its pro-IUML stand, said: “Zumba is harmful to the moral life of students. Prayer is the best for mental well-being. We also have yoga. This is an import from the Western world. If the government insists that Zumba dance should be implemented, our clerics will fight against it. Girls and boys should not be allowed to mingle under the pretext of the Zumba dance. Should we require this dance programme from Colombia? Our students should be allowed to maintain morality. Let the government appoint physical education teachers in all schools.”
Another cleric, Nazar Faizy Koodathai, said students should not be compelled into “vulgarity”.
“If well-built students are also forced to dance wearing minimum clothes and mingling with the opposite sex, it is highly deplorable. Instead of introducing Zumba, let the government focus on physical training programmes. Students should not be forced into vulgarity,” he said.
The Indian Union Muslim League’s student wing, the Muslim Students Federation, also came out against the decision. IUML state president P K Navas said, “This was unilaterally introduced in schools without conducting a study.”
While chairing a meeting convened to address increasing incidents of teenage violence and drug abuse, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had suggested the idea of introducing Zumba in schools to ease stress and make students more active.
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In 2022, the Left Front government had decided to introduce gender-neutral uniforms and other reforms in the education sector. A school curriculum committee had also suggested doing away with separate seats for boys and girls in schools as part of bringing gender neutrality. However, the government was forced to recall the reforms in the wake of protests from religious organisations.
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