The fashion designer and social media influencer Archana Makwana performed ‘Shirshasan’ at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on June 21 to commemorate International Yoga Day. She posted pictures of the practice on social media, which went viral and attracted criticism, abuse, and death threats. The designer, who is based in Vadodara, has been given police protection in response to the death threats she received, an official said on Monday.
Following a complaint from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the Punjab police on Sunday filed a case against her under section 295-A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with the deliberate and malicious intention of upsetting the religious feelings of any class.
“Makwana has been provided police protection at the local level for a period of one week starting Sunday which may be extended if required,” a Vadodara police official stated on Monday.
She deleted the images from social media after getting backlash for them, and in a video apology, she said that she had done yoga at the sacred site to promote harmony and physical fitness.
“On Yoga Day, I did Shirshasan as an act of gratitude, not to offend anyone. That was not my intention. I’m sorry you were upset. I didn’t mean to offend anyone who practices a religion. I’m sorry.I’ve been viewed incorrectly. I’ve been abused and threatened with death,” she said.
She also expressed her gratitude to the Vadodara police for their protection.
“I am incredibly appreciative of the swift action taken by the Gujarat and Vadodara police departments.She thanked the Gujarati government for providing her with police protection.
