Zumba in schools? That’s Kerala’s latest move in its war against drugs. But not everyone is dancing. Some conservative groups are fuming. They claim Zumba is “immoral.” The state government, however, isn’t backing down. In fact, it’s doubling down.
The General Education Department introduced Zumba in schools as part of an anti-drug campaign. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan believes the high-energy dance can reduce stress, boost health, and keep kids away from drugs. The logic? A fit, happy child is less likely to fall into addiction.
But not all are convinced.
Some Muslim organisations in Kerala have objected, saying the dance clashes with their values. Their problem isn’t with fitness—it’s with the style of the dance. They say it goes against “moral teachings.” But Education Minister V Sivankutty has hit back hard.
“This opposition is more venomous than narcotics,” he said, defending the move.
Sivankutty made it clear: no one is forcing children to wear revealing clothes or perform anything inappropriate. Kids are doing light fitness routines in their uniforms. He believes the real danger isn’t the dance—it’s the communal agenda behind the protests.
“Such views spread poison more dangerous than drugs,” he warned.
He also pointed out that the Right to Education Act requires children to take part in government-prescribed learning activities—including physical education. Zumba, along with yoga and aerobics, fits right into that.
The Minister’s bigger concern? The protests might not really be about Zumba at all. He said some groups are using this issue to stir up majority communalism. That’s a big red flag in a state like Kerala, known for its harmony and progressiveness.
“Turning a sheep into a dog,” he said. That’s how he described the twisting of simple fitness into a political issue.
Physical education is already part of Kerala’s curriculum. The idea is to boost mental and physical health, not just academic performance. And Zumba fits that bill. It’s fun, energetic, and inclusive.
From this academic year, many schools have already begun Zumba sessions. Teachers say the kids love it. It’s a break from books, and it keeps them active.
While the debate rages on, the Kerala government stands proud. In a country where kids face mounting pressure, rising stress, and increasing drug exposure, Kerala is choosing music, movement, and sweat.
And it’s not backing down anytime soon.
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