Hijab must for women, no music allowed; Palakkad's 'Islam-friendly' gym triggers debate

PALAKKAD: Gym and fitness centres are popping up in all nooks and crannies in Kerala. The business is thriving as people, unlike in older times, have developed a keen interest in topics of health and diet, while there is also a desire among many to remain in shape despite the threat of ageing.

However, the opening of a gym in Puthunagaram in Palakkad has ignited debate for odd reasons. It all started with the owner of the gym appearing on social media through a video to declare his initiative as Kerala’s first-ever gym to follow Sharia-based guidelines.

In the video uploaded by ‘Nawaz Muthu T’, it says that the gym has been functioning for the last 15 years, but will now undergo a slew of changes in rules.

As per the purported guidelines to be followed in the gym:

• No music inside the centre

• Women and men will be allowed separate spaces to work out. Their schedules will be managed in a way to avoid them mingling together.

• Members will be bound to follow the dress codes according to Islamic guidelines

• Women members will be required to wear hijab

The set of rules ignited a debate on social media, with many raising concerns over mixing religion into fitness centres. Some others commented that this was a 'slow poison' often used by radical elements to bring subtle changes like Sharia laws without inviting much fuss from society.

However, many also supported the moves, saying that it would open space for staunch women followers of Islam to work out, adhering to their values.