Controversy at Golden Temple: Influencer's Yoga Sparks Police Complaint

The SGPC has filed a complaint against fashion designer Archana Makwana for performing yoga at the Golden Temple, which was seen as disrespectful. Makwana has apologized, claiming she was unaware it would offend. The SGPC also suspended three employees for negligence.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has lodged a police complaint against fashion designer and lifestyle influencer Archana Makwana, accusing her of 'hurting religious sentiments' by performing yoga at the Golden Temple and sharing the photographs on social media.

Archana Makwana, however, has tendered an apology, stating that she never intended to hurt anyone's religious sentiments.

On the occasion of International Day of Yoga, Makwana visited the Golden Temple, performing yoga in the sacred 'prakrama' path.

The apex gurdwara authority, SGPC, also suspended three of its employees for failing to perform their duties vigilantly.

SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami announced that a complaint had been lodged with the police commissioner to take appropriate action against Makwana.

'No one can be allowed to act against Sikh conduct at the Golden Temple. Some individuals deliberately disregard the sanctity and historical importance of this holy place and commit acts that are deemed objectionable,' Dhami stated.

'Sikh sentiments and the 'maryada' (conduct) have been hurt by this act, leading us to file a police complaint,' he added.

Dhami emphasized the reverence of Harmandir Sahib in the Sikh world, attracting pilgrims from all religions and classes. He appealed for adherence to the 'maryada' of the place.

Darbar Sahib general manager Bhagwant Singh Dhangera stated that the woman's actions have distressed the sentiments of Sikhs and the 'sangat' (community).

Consequently, Makwana posted an apology on her Instagram handle, stating, 'I posted something without intending to harm anyone's religious sentiments. I was unaware that practicing yoga in the Gurdwara Sahib premises could be offensive to some. I meant no harm and deeply apologize for any hurt I may have caused. I promise to be more mindful in the future.'

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)