On the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sakshi Maharaj strongly defended the universal nature of yoga and responded sharply to recent criticisms made by religious leaders, particularly Maulana Badre Alam, regarding practices like Surya Namaskar.
Speaking to the media in Uttar Pradesh, Sakshi Maharaj emphasized that yoga is not being imposed by the government but is a globally accepted wellness practice promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the message of "One Earth, One Health".
“Neither our government nor our party is imposing yoga on anyone. PM Modi has spread the message of ‘Karo Yog, Raho Nirog’ across the world, and today, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, even priests — everyone is thanking India for this gift,” said Sakshi Maharaj.
He called out what he termed the “contradictions” in Maulana Alam’s statements, noting that even the act of performing namaz involves yogic postures, suggesting that wellness practices have always existed in different cultural forms.
“Alam Sahab says they do yoga five times a day through namaz — so what is the objection? Some people simply want to stay in the media spotlight,” he said.
Sakshi Maharaj also extended gratitude to the numerous countries worldwide that have embraced yoga, crediting India’s global diplomatic outreach and Prime Minister Modi’s efforts at the United Nations, where Yoga Day was officially recognized in 2014.
“I thank all the countries around the world that have accepted yoga with open arms. This is not a matter of religion — it's about health, harmony, and peace,” he added.
International Yoga Day 2025 witnessed massive participation across the globe, with public parks, embassies, and educational institutions hosting sessions. From New York to Nairobi, and from Tokyo to Tehran, millions practiced yoga, symbolizing its growing influence beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.
As political debates continue over cultural practices, Sakshi Maharaj’s remarks aim to reframe yoga as a bridge, not a wedge — highlighting its role in promoting unity, health, and global goodwill.
