During Bhagwat Katha in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, the Yoga Guru highlights the strength of Muslim society through Zakat, stressing that Hindus must revive their own donation traditions to fight poverty
NEW DELHI – In an unusual but widely appreciated statement, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev has called upon the Hindu community to learn from the centuries-old Islamic tenet of Zakat, stressing that the practice of giving a fixed portion of income for the welfare of the poor has made Muslims socially stronger.
Speaking during the seven-day Bhagwat Katha at the religious seat of Rewasa Dham in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, Baba Ramdev said that the Hindu community must revive the concept of daan (donation) written in their scriptures, and not lag behind in the field of charity.
Quoting the Muslim system of Zakat, Baba Ramdev said: “Even if a Muslim is poor or a labourer, he still gives a percentage of his income as Zakat. This tradition is very powerful because it goes directly to their religion and the service of the needy.”
In his address to hundreds of devotees, the yoga guru reminded people that members of the Muslim community, whether they earn just Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 a day, still set aside a portion of their income for charity.
“It is remarkable,” Ramdev said, “that even the poorest Muslim does not forget his duty of Zakat. This practice makes their community strong and united. It is a lesson for all of us.”
He further added that Muslims today are not confined only to manual labour but are excelling in technical fields and skilled professions. “One of the main reasons for their strength is that every Muslim, whether rich or poor, contributes to his society. This is what Zakat has given them.”
Turning his attention towards Hindu society, Baba Ramdev emphasised that Hindus must return to their scriptures and revive the spirit of donation.
“Our ancient texts clearly say that charity brings virtue and strengthens the society. But sadly, many Hindus have forgotten this. A person who does not donate always lags behind economically and socially,” he said.
He explained that Hindu society must adopt the habit of giving, not as a burden, but as a duty towards the poor and the needy. “If every Hindu donates even a small part of his income, poverty and inequality will reduce, and society will become more united,” he told the audience.
Baba Ramdev’s statement sparked wide discussion among the devotees at Rewasa Dham, many of whom praised him for highlighting a positive example from another faith.
One devotee, Suresh Sharma, said: “It is rare that Hindu saints openly appreciate Muslims. What Baba Ramdev said today shows honesty. We must accept that Muslims are disciplined in charity work and that is why their community is strong.”
Another devotee, Kamla Devi, added: “He spoke the truth. If we all give something from our income, as Muslims give Zakat, then there will be no hungry person in the country.”
Religious scholars also welcomed the message, describing it as a step towards greater understanding between communities. Prof Iqbal Ahmad, a scholar of Islamic studies, remarked: “This statement proves that the Muslim tradition of Zakat is not only beneficial for Muslims but also sets an example for the whole of humanity. If Hindus follow their own daan system with the same seriousness, society will become just and fair.”
At a time when communal tensions often dominate headlines, Baba Ramdev’s praise of a Muslim tradition has been taken as a rare and positive gesture. His words, observers say, remind society that acts of kindness and service can unite people across religious divides.
As the Bhagwat Katha concluded for the day, devotees were seen discussing his words long after he left. Many said that such teachings can bring a fresh spirit of charity, equality and unity in the country.
“If everyone comes forward with the spirit of service, as Baba Ramdev urged, then poverty and inequality can be reduced, and society will become more peaceful and stronger,” said a local teacher, Ramesh Choudhary.
