Turkey imposes curbs on yoga

Turkey is moving to ban what it considers “religious symbols” from yoga studios in the country, sparking concern among those who practise the discipline that originates from India, the Hurriyet newspaper reported yesterday.

The ban would apply to symbols associated with the practice, including the Buddha and aum sign, as well as mantras, images, music and incense. It is being imposed by the sports ministry, which believes the religion part should not be involved in sport.