Kerala gym's Islamic-friendly plan sparks public debate

A fitness center in Palakkad, Kerala, has ignited a public debate after its owner announced plans to operate as what he described as the state's first "Islamic-friendly" gym. The controversy began when a promotional video from the gym, located in Puthunagaram, circulated online.

In the video, owner Nawaz Muthu T outlined new operational guidelines for the facility, which he said has been in operation for approximately 15 years and is currently undergoing renovation. He stated the gym would prohibit loud music and institute separate workout timings and spaces for men and women. Nawaz also mentioned that trainers would be segregated by gender.

The announcement quickly drew criticism on social media, with many users questioning whether the gym was intended to be exclusive to Muslims. In response to the backlash, Nawaz removed the original video and posted a clarification. He asserted that the gym is open to people of all faiths and was never meant to be Muslim-only.

Nawaz explained that the term "Islamic-friendly" refers to specific operational practices designed to accommodate religious preferences, not to restrict membership. He said the separate schedules and ban on open music...