Sikh Groups Halt Yoga Classes in Faridkot Gurdwaras, Demand Gatka Training
A controversy erupted in Faridkot town today after some Sikh organisations objected to yoga classes being conducted within the premises of local gurdwaras. Representatives of these Sikh groups intervened and halted the ongoing sessions, which were being held under the Punjab Government's “CM di Yogshalas” initiative today, citing a violation of Sikh religious code of conduct.
The leaders have demanded that instead of yoga, gurdwaras should traditionalise the training of Gatka (Sikh martial arts) to connect youth with their heritage. Sikh activists visited four gurdwaras, where the classes were being conducted, and raised serious objections. They argued that holding yoga classes inside the sacred premises of a gurdwara violated its sanctity and religious protocol, especially since several participants—both men and women—attend the sessions with uncovered heads, which was strictly prohibited inside a gurdwara.
Sikh Leader's Statement
Speaking on the matter, Sikh leader Sharanjit Singh Saran said, "We have observed for a while that the CM's yoga classes are being run inside gurdwara premises, leading to breaches of maryada. People are arriving with uncovered heads, which goes against Sikh tenets. Furthermore, most of the trainers providing this instruction are not even from Punjab."
Saran called upon the Sri Akal Takht Sahib jathedar to issue a formal edict (Hukamnama) banning yoga classes inside all gurdwaras. "Instead of yoga, children should be taught Gatka inside the Guru’s house to connect them with their faith and help maintain Sikh traditions. Today, we have made a formal request to the management committees running these classes to condemn this practice and immediately shut down the yoga sessions," he added.
Allegations of Political Interference
Activists further alleged that introducing these state-sponsored yoga classes was a subtle political interference aimed at diluting the sanctity of Sikh religious spaces. They warned the yoga instructors not to conduct sessions inside the gurdwara complex and suggested they find alternative venues outside the religious premises.
Mixed Reactions from Locals
The move met with mild resistance from some local residents, including women who attend the classes. They expressed disappointment over the disruption, arguing that yoga was a health-oriented practice aimed at physical well-being and should not be given a religious or communal colour.
