The government of India has decided to drop `Surya Namaskar' from the `asanas' that are to be performed by people across the country to commemorate the UN-declared `International Day of Yoga' on June 21. The trimming of the Yoga drill is aimed at catering to the sensibilities of the minorities in the wake of opposition from Muslim groups.
Launching a nationwide campaign against making what it called “Hindu religious practices” compulsory in educational institutions, the All India Muslim Personal Board (AIMPLB) had demanded that the order making `Surya Namaskar' compulsory in schools be cancelled. The board had also termed the Modi government's policies as against law and Constitution.
Surya Namaskar, regarded as a yogic practice for comprehensive development of the body, is considered a crucial component for improvement of holistic health. Earlier in April, the government had come under attack on the use of “ Aum” while issuing a common protocol for celebration of the International Yoga Day.
Meanwhile, preparations are on in full swing for the mega event on June 21, which is expected to witness almost 40,000 people from across the country at Delhi's Rajpath performing `asanas'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the gathering, minister of state for Ayush Shripad Naik said.
The programme, which will be conducted between 7 am and 7:35 am in the entire country simultaneously, is likely to be attended by celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Shilpa Shetty and Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli.
“Our ministry is also trying to register the mega event in the Guinness Book of World Records,“ Naik said.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted June 21 as International Yoga Day after PM Modi urged the world community to observe the ancient practice globally. With over 175 nations supporting Modi's proposal, the move is seen as a diplomatic win.
