Yoga Guru Ramdev Sparks Outcry by Dismissing Delhi’s Air Purifiers as ‘For the Rich’

Delhi’s air quality plunged into the ‘severe’ category this weekend. The Air Quality Index (AQI) hit a dangerous reading of 459 on Sunday. A thick, toxic smog blanketed the capital, leaving residents struggling.

The worsening pollution sparked a heated public debate. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev made controversial remarks about modern solutions during a television interview. He offered unconventional advice for dealing with the crisis.

Ramdev’s “Curtains and Kapalbhati” Approach to Toxic Air

Ramdev acknowledged Delhi can feel like a “gas chamber.” He linked the pollution to national progress, saying dust flies when a country develops. His primary suggestion involved simple home modifications.

He advised people to hang curtains in their homes. These should be dusted off every few weeks while wearing a mask. For personal health, he championed the breathing exercise Kapalbhati.

He explicitly rejected a common appliance. Ramdev labeled air purifiers as “ameeron ka chonchla,” a fad for the wealthy. He insisted people should sit inside and practice long, deep breaths instead.

Health Experts Issue Stern Warning, Contradict Guru’s Advice

Medical professionals quickly responded to Ramdev’s comments. According to health experts cited in reports, Delhi’s pollution must never be normalized. They strongly advise against exercising in severely polluted air.

Doctors recommend proven interventions for indoor safety. Delhi-based cardiologist Dr. Alok Chopra outlined specific rules in an online post. His advice includes using air purifiers, keeping them on during sleep, and adding certain indoor plants.

Experts also stress minimizing outdoor exposure when AQI is high. Ventilation should only occur when pollution levels drop significantly. This expert stance presents a direct contrast to the yoga guru’s dismissed views.

The clash highlights a deep divide in tackling Delhi’s perennial air pollution crisis. While some advocate for traditional practices, medical authorities insist on modern, verified protections. The debate continues as the city’s air quality remains a severe public health threat.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: What did Ramdev suggest instead of air purifiers?

He recommended hanging curtains at home and dusting them regularly with a mask. He also promoted the yoga breathing exercise Kapalbhati to combat the effects of toxic air indoors.

Q2: What is the expert-recommended way to stay safe indoors?

Health experts advise using a good quality air purifier and keeping it running, especially during sleep. They also suggest adding air-purifying plants like areca palms and limiting outdoor air entry when AQI is high.

Q3: Is it safe to do breathing exercises in poor AQI?

No, health experts warn that exercising, including strenuous breathing practices, in severely polluted air can be harmful. They advise staying indoors and minimizing physical exertion during high pollution periods.

Q4: What was Delhi’s AQI when this report was made?

Delhi’s Air Quality Index was recorded at 459, which is in the ‘severe’ category. This level of pollution poses health risks to everyone and serious threats to those with existing conditions.

Q5: Why is there controversy around Ramdev’s statements?

The controversy stems from his dismissal of air purifiers, which doctors recommend, during a severe public health crisis. His suggestions are seen by medical professionals as insufficient protection against dangerous pollution levels.