It is said that health is a thousand blessings, but in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, some health advice is causing controversy.
In the Hindi language monthly magazine ‘Shivera’ published by the Department of Education in the Rajasthan Government, some old prescriptions for staying healthy and active have been given, in which women have been instructed to sweep, ask questions and fill water.
People don’t know what they do for health, but the publication of these prescriptions has created a controversy.
Some are calling it anti-feminist, some are calling it sexist, and some are calling it a conspiracy to take women back to the 18th century.
The magazine, which can be downloaded online, has 14 tips on page 32 under the heading ‘Easy Ways to Stay Healthy’. The third of them is: ‘Besides walking, running, Cycling, horseback riding, swimming, or any sport and exercise are good ways.
“Women can get good exercise by grinding mills, mopping, jumping rope, carrying water and other household chores. Playing with children for a short time every day, laughing openly for ten to fifteen minutes are also good forms of exercise.’
According to reports in the Indian media, the teachers’ association in Rajasthan has opposed it and said it would have adverse effects.
According to him, this monthly is widely distributed in every school in the state and it should be withdrawn immediately.
According to the Times of India, about 30,000 copies of it are distributed across the state and it is of particular importance among teachers and school principals who consider it to be an official approach. According to the newspaper, Education Minister Vasudev Devnani said. that he ‘would like to examine the matter before saying anything about it.’
A Twitter handle called Mange Ram 0154 wrote, ‘Does the Chief Minister of Rajasthan follow these household chores tips to stay fit?’
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It should be noted that Rajasthan is ruled by the BJP and there is a woman, Vijaya Raje Scindia, who is the Chief Minister for the second time. A Twitter handle named Rajan Mahajan wrote: ‘How are prescriptions being given to the women of Rajasthan and when they Controversy continues over the violation of women’s dignity in the film ‘Padmavati’. Wondering why the same prescriptions aren’t for men? Are we men in Rajasthan unhealthy and good with a snot?’
Patralekha Chatterjee advises BJP supporters in Rajasthan and beyond to grind the mill and fill the water to stay fit.
The handle Bosco Unchanged humorously wrote that ‘All gyms should incorporate crunches and sweepers into fitness.’
In these 14 points, while eating fruits and fresh vegetables for good nutrition, it is also mentioned to give up alcohol and smoking and avoid soft drinks, but in this context Coca-Cola and Pepsi are specifically mentioned. According to Hindustan Times, Kavita Shrivastava, National Secretary of the People’s Union for Civil Rights, said: ‘It is very shameful that the education sector is re-enforcing the outdated traditions from which education gives us freedom.’
It should be noted that Rajasthan has recently been in the headlines for rewriting history in which it can now be taught that ‘Akbar was defeated instead of Rana Paktap’ in the battle of Haldi Ghati.
There was also a demand to make the ‘cow the national animal’ and a Rajasthan High Court judge had said that he does not have sex.