Kerala education minister defends Zumba as key part of school physical education program

Kerala’s decision to introduce Zumba in schools has sparked controversy, but General Education Minister V Sivankutty stood firm on June 28, defending the government’s plan amid criticism from Muslim groups.

He described the opposition as rooted in “majoritarian communal tendencies” and confirmed that Zumba would remain part of physical activities in government schools.

“When several states protested against the hijab, we took a progressive stand. But now, some organizations are promoting conservative views under the garb of cultural protection,” Sivankutty said, criticizing efforts to politicize the matter.

Addressing concerns about dress code, the minister clarified, “No one is asked to wear revealing clothes for Zumba. Students are practicing it in their regular school uniforms. As per the RTE Act, students are mandated to participate in government-recommended learning processes.”

Sivankutty added that nearly 90% of Kerala’s government schools already offer physical activities like Zumba to enhance students’ physical and mental health.

He highlighted that the state’s curriculum now includes health and physical education as core subjects, updated to meet global standards. These lessons cover body movement, nutrition, stress management, and cardiovascular fitness.

The government promotes activities like Zumba and aerobic dance for their benefits in improving lung capacity, heart health, and emotional well-being.

Sivankutty stressed that such programs are necessary in a state facing lifestyle-related diseases, contrasting them with “communal narratives” trying to block progress.

Earlier this year, the Kerala government announced Zumba would be part of the school routine to help students relieve stress and stay healthy.

Some schools, with PTA support, have already started sessions. However, this has triggered backlash from Islamic organizations and conservative Muslim groups.

The Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama and its youth wing, Samastha Yuvajana Sangam (SYS), opposed the program. SYS leader Abdusamad Pookkottur called Zumba “against society’s moral values” and criticized the government for introducing it amid shortages of qualified physical education teachers.

TK Ashraf, a teacher affiliated with the Wisdom Islamic Organization, said he would not allow his children to join Zumba classes, accusing the activity of promoting foreign culture through music, revealing outfits, and mixed-gender dancing.

Likewise, PK Navas, president of the Muslim Students Federation (MSF), condemned the state for making the decision without adequate discussion.