Gulmarg Fashion Show Sparks Outrage Amid Ramadan; Designers Issue Apology
Srinagar, March 10, 2025 – A fashion show held in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, has ignited a storm of controversy, drawing sharp criticism from religious leaders, political figures, and civil society. The event, organized by designer duo Shivan & Narresh to mark the 15th anniversary of their label, featured models showcasing skiwear on snow-covered ramps. However, its timing during the holy month of Ramadan and the nature of the attire have been widely condemned as a “cultural invasion” and an affront to local traditions.
The controversy has escalated into a political and social flashpoint, with Jammu and Kashmir’s grand mufti, Nasir-ul-Islam, leading the charge against the event. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ordered an inquiry into the matter, while the designers have issued a public apology, expressing regret for any hurt caused.
Grand Mufti Condemns the Event
Jammu and Kashmir’s grand mufti, Nasir-ul-Islam, strongly condemned the fashion show, describing it as a violation of the region’s cultural and religious values. In a statement, he said, “Semi-nude men and women were walking on the ramp, which is completely unacceptable. It is against our traditions and religious values. Legal action must be taken against those responsible.”
The grand mufti also called on the central government to intervene, emphasizing the need to prevent such events in the future. “Such heinous acts are not acceptable in Islam. We are badly hurt, and the central government should take action in this matter and stop such things from happening on the soil of J&K,” he added.
Political Leaders React
The fashion show has drawn strong reactions from political leaders across the spectrum. Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, took to social media to express his outrage. In a post on X, he wrote, “Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is organised in #Gulmarg, pictures and videos from which have gone viral sparking shock and anger among people. How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people? Those involved should be immediately held accountable. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in #Kashmir!”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also weighed in, acknowledging the public anger and confirming that his office had ordered an inquiry. “The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities and that too during this holy month. My office has been in touch with the local authorities, and I’ve asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report,” Abdullah stated in a post on X.
Speaking in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday, Abdullah clarified that the event was a private party organized without government permission. “It was a private party, and there was no government involvement. No permission was taken from us. Instructions have been given that if anything against the law has happened, then action should be taken. If necessary, it should be handed over to the police for investigation,” he said.
Abdullah further criticized the organizers, stating, “Those who organized the fashion show have not applied their mind, showed disregard to public sentiment, and paid no attention to where they are organizing it and its timing.”
Designers Issue Apology
Amid the growing backlash, designers Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja issued a public apology on their official X page. The Delhi-based duo expressed regret for any hurt caused by their presentation, emphasizing that their intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski lifestyle, not to offend religious sentiments.
“We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski & après-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments. Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologise for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community. We remain committed to being more mindful and respectful,” the statement read.
Social Activists and Civil Society Speak Out
The fashion show has also drawn criticism from social activists and civil society. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, a prominent social activist, described the event as an attempt to undermine the moral, religious, and ethical values of Kashmir. “Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women walking on snow. Will the Tourism Department or CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell-bent on demolishing our moral, ethical, cultural, and religious values?” he asked in a post on X.
Protests erupted in Srinagar and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with demonstrators demanding accountability and stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Cultural Sensitivity and Tourism Promotion: A Delicate Balance
The controversy has reignited debates about the balance between tourism promotion and cultural sensitivity in Jammu and Kashmir. While the region has long been a hub for tourism, critics argue that events like the Gulmarg fashion show risk alienating the local population and undermining the cultural fabric of the valley.
“This is not just about a fashion show; it’s about respecting the sentiments of the people of Kashmir. Tourism should promote the region’s unique culture and traditions, not disregard them,” said political analyst Dr. Shabir Ahmad.
What’s Next?
As the inquiry ordered by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah unfolds, all eyes are on the government’s response to the controversy. The incident has highlighted the need for stricter oversight of events held in the region, particularly those involving sensitive cultural and religious contexts.
For now, the people of Jammu and Kashmir await justice and accountability, hoping that this incident serves as a wake-up call for policymakers and event organizers alike.
