- Palakkad gym branded 'Islamic-friendly' sparks controversy.
- Rules include separate timings, no loud music, hijab.
- Owner clarifies gym is open to all, not exclusive.
Kerala: A fitness centre in Kerala's Palakkad district has sparked major controversy after branding itself as an 'Islamic-friendly gym' with several questioning the actual intent and nature of such an unusual designation.
What Is The Controversy?
The controversy began after the Puthunagaram-based gym released a promotional video in which owner Nawaz Muthu T announced that the facility would operate without loud music.
He further stated that the gym would have separate workout spaces and timings for men and women, along with gender-segregated trainers to accommodate its members.
What The 'Islamic-Friendly' Gym Offers
According to the promotional video, the facility has implemented a strict set of operational rules, including:
- No loud music; headphones permitted
- Male trainers for male members; female trainers for female members
- Separate timings for men and women
- Women must cover their bodies and wear hijab
- Open to people of all religions
Promotional Video Sparks Backlash
"We are launching an Islam-friendly gym, and I believe it will be the first of its kind in Kerala. Anyone interested is welcome to contact me and visit the facility," owner Nawaz said in the video, adding that the facility was not a new venture but an existing fitness centre that has been operating for approximately 15 years and is currently undergoing renovations.
The video faced significant backlash online, with social media users raising sharp concerns over whether the facility was intended exclusively for Muslims.
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'Everycome Can Come': Owner Issues Clarification
Following widespread criticism, the original promotional video was taken down, and the owner released another video explaining the concept behind the facility and addressing public concerns.
"A lot of people say this is a Muslim gym or a gym only for Muslims. I am not saying that. I have never said this is a gym only for Muslims," Nawaz said in the video.
He explained that the 'Islamic-friendly' tag refers to the gym's operational standards, such as separate workout times for men and women and a ban on loud music, rather than a restriction on who can join.
"When it comes to an Islamic-friendly gym, women and men should not work out together. Women should have a separate time and a separate space. Men should have a separate time. There should be no loud music," he said.
Nawaz emphasised that these rules were designed to accommodate individuals, including his own relatives, who adhere to conservative principles and feel uncomfortable in environments featuring loud music or mixed-gender workout areas.
He further emphasised that the membership is open to everyone regardless of faith.
"Everyone can come. The only condition is that there will be no open music. Those who want to listen to music can do so through headphones. There is nothing wrong with that," he said.