Muslim man teaches free yoga

Rourkela: In Sundargarh district, a devout muslim man in Hemgir block , has been promoting and teaching yoga, free of cost, for the last 16 years. Acharya Rafik Khan (46), is a resident of Luabahal village, also attends camps in school and colleges in his area.He has been working as art teacher in Govt Upper Primary School in Kuarkela since 2018. Acharya Khan, who promotes yoga in the remote tribal-dominated pockets as well as his community, is also a committee member of Patanjali Yoga Samiti.Acharya Khan has been trying to convince his community members about the philosophy of Yoga and how it works in a healthier way of living. Inspired from him, a number of Muslims have also started practicing yoga.Acharya Khan said, “Yoga is not only a social unifier but it promotes health and well-being. I am fortunate that my family has always supported me in this mission.”“My elder brother, sister-in-law, their kids and the rest of family have embraced yoga as part of their lifestyle. After seeing them and the health benefits, my relatives have been doing yoga regularly. I have also been getting encouragement from my friends,” added Acharya Khan.