Yoga and Namaz Are Very Similar, Says Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has given a new spin to Yoga and Namaz.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath triggered a huge debate today by saying that Yoga and Namaz are very similar.

Addressing a Yog Conference, he also said Suryanamaskar and Namaz are very similar as both aim at improving health through breath and slow and structured body movements.

He said both Suryanamaskar and Namaz have similar postures.

Aditynath said people should not see Yoga or Namaz through the prism of religion. It should be viewed scientifically as an exercise for holistic well being and health.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s new view of Yoga and Namaz is bound to trigger a huge debate. The statement has also shown him in new light as someone trying to bridge the divide between Hindus and Muslims in Uttar Pradesh.

But die-hard Muslim fundamentalists have condemned the comparison saying that Namaz is a sacred religious practice and not a health or breathing exercise.

Will Yogi Adityanath go a step further and declare a Namaz Day like a Yoga Day and allow people across religious divide to practice the ritual?