Golden Temple Controversy: A woman said she received death threats on social media after practicing yoga at the famous Golden Temple in Punjab, India. Instagram influencer and yoga practitioner Archana Makwana visited the temple on June 21 to celebrate International Yoga Day by practicing her “favourite” Shashank Asana on the premises. Her actions were swiftly condemned by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which manages the temple. Makwana was filed a police complaint against her for “hurting” the sentiments and dignity of Sikhs.
What was the reason for the SGPC’s objection?
SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said the woman left the temple without offering prayers, and accused her of deliberately disregarding the sanctity and historical importance of the holy site and committing a “heinous act”.
Golden Temple general manager Bhagwant Singh Dhangera opposed women posting photos and videos on social media.
“CCTV footage revealed that she entered the premises at 6.57 am and was practicing yoga at 7.04 am. She spent almost an hour in ‘parikrama’ but did not perform any prayers during her stay,” he added.
The SGPC also dismissed three employees for negligence and imposed a fine of around Rs 5,000 each.
Woman receives death threats
As the controversy continued, the influencer removed all photos and videos of her visit to the holy site from her social media accounts and issued an apology.
“I was not aware that performing yoga on the Gurdwara Sahib premises could cause offence to some people. I was just paying my respects to him and had no intention of hurting anyone,” Makwana said.
She added that she had also received death threats and libelous trolling on social media, and vowed never to make the “same mistake” again.
“I sincerely apologize for any hurt I may have caused and promise to be more careful in the future. Please accept my sincere apology,” she further stated.
(With input from relevant agencies)
