Maulana Tariq Jamil’s yoga video sparks mixed reactions online
Maulana Tariq Jamil, one of Pakistan’s most respected Islamic scholars, has become the center of an online debate after a video of him performing yoga exercises surfaced on social media.
Widely admired for his calm demeanor and inclusive approach to religious teachings, Maulana Tariq Jamil enjoys a large following across different schools of thought in Pakistan and abroad. Over the years, he has built a reputation for promoting unity, compassion, and moral values through his lectures. In addition to his religious work, he has also ventured into business with his own brand, a move that has occasionally drawn criticism from some quarters who question the commercialization of religious personalities.
The latest discussion surrounding the scholar, however, has little to do with his sermons or business activities. Instead, it centers on a recently circulated video featuring him alongside Dr. Affan Qaiser, in which he demonstrates several yoga-inspired stretching exercises.
The clip quickly gained traction across social media platforms, with many viewers expressing surprise at the scholar’s flexibility. Considering his age and previous health challenges, several users praised his physical fitness and commitment to maintaining an active lifestyle. Many described the video as inspiring, saying it highlighted the importance of mobility, exercise, and healthy aging.
Others, however, questioned whether the video should have been recorded and shared publicly. Some critics argued that such content was unexpected from a religious figure of Maulana Tariq Jamil’s stature, while others believed it was unnecessary to turn a private fitness session into a public spectacle.
The video also prompted reactions from public figures. Among those commenting was politician Hina Parvez Butt, who voiced her disapproval of the clip, adding another layer to the discussion already unfolding online.
As the debate intensified, social media users remained sharply divided. Supporters argued that the movements shown in the video were simply physical exercises aimed at improving flexibility and overall health. They maintained that stretching routines and yoga-based movements should not be viewed negatively when practiced solely for fitness purposes.
Others defended the scholar by pointing out that maintaining physical health is encouraged and that there was nothing inappropriate about engaging in exercises designed to improve strength and mobility. Many also praised Maulana Tariq Jamil for staying physically active despite his advancing age.
On the other hand, critics expressed discomfort with the video, saying they did not expect to see the religious scholar performing such poses. Some users felt the footage should not have been made public, while others questioned whether it aligned with the public image associated with a prominent Islamic preacher.
Despite the differing opinions, the video has generated widespread discussion online, with thousands of users continuing to share their views. While some see it as a positive reminder of the importance of health and fitness, others believe the clip has crossed personal or cultural boundaries.
The viral video has once again demonstrated how social media can rapidly turn everyday moments involving public figures into nationwide conversations, leaving audiences divided over interpretation, intent, and public perception.
