I am a true Muslim, Prophet a 'great yogi': Sakshi Maharaj

NEW DELHI: Sparking a fresh controversy, saffron-clad BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj today claimed himself to be a true Muslim and dubbed Prophet Mohammed as a "great yogi" and the biggest practitioner of yoga.

"The biggest name in Islam is that of Mohammed and I consider Mohammed saab as a great yogi. A Muslim is one who has 'iman' and that is why called a Mussalman. I am a true Muslim," said the leader, who has made several controversial remarks about minorities in the past.

He further said people should stop communalising the sun.

"If sun does not rise, the whole world will become blind. Those who communalise sun should not take its light," he said.

Ahead of the government's big plans for Yoga Day on June 21, Maharaj said those politicising surya namaskar should know that there are 42 prostrations (sujood) in namaz, which is performed five times a day.

"Opposition parties are trying to do politics over surya namaskar and misleading minorities. There are 42 prostrations (sujood) in namaz which is performed five times a day which is also a form of yoga.

"Surya namaskar has nothing to do with any religion. There is no difference between Allah, Bhagwan or God. It brings your mind in sync with the body and soul," said the BJP leader.