Gulmarg Fashion Show Sparks Outrage During Ramadan; Leaders Demand Accountability
Srinagar, March 9 – A fashion show held at the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan has triggered widespread criticism and condemnation across Jammu and Kashmir. The event, described as “indecent” by critics, has been labeled a “cultural invasion” and an affront to Kashmiri sentiments.
National Conference (NC) senior leader and Member of Parliament from central Kashmir, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, expressed shock over the event, which featured models walking on snow in designer outfits. He demanded immediate action against the tourism officials and organizers responsible for the event.
“The images from Gulmarg are shocking. This is what cultural invasion in the disguise of tourism looks like. They show an utter disregard for Kashmiri sentiments,” Ruhullah Mehdi’s office posted on X. He further added, “The Tourism department officials involved should be immediately taken to task, as well as the organisers.”
Religious Leaders Voice Their Discontent
Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also condemned the event, calling it “outrageous” and “unacceptable.” In a post on X, he stated, “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?”
Mirwaiz further demanded accountability, saying, “Those involved should be immediately held accountable. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in #Kashmir!”
Political and Social Activists Join the Criticism
The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) criticized the Union Territory government, particularly Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Tourism portfolio. AIP chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi questioned the CM’s role, stating, “How can the CM, who also heads the Tourism Department, allow such obscenity? Is there no concern for the sentiments of the people?”
Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat described the event as an attack on the moral, religious, and ethical values of Kashmir. In a post on X, he wrote, “Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women walking on snow. Will Tourism Deptt, CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell-bent on demolishing our moral, ethical, cultural, and religious values (sic)?”
Cultural Sensitivities Ignored?
The fashion show, which was reportedly organized to promote tourism, has reignited debates about cultural sensitivity and the balance between tourism promotion and respecting local traditions. Critics argue that the event reflects a lack of understanding of the region’s deeply religious and cultural ethos.
As the controversy continues to unfold, calls for accountability grow louder, with many demanding immediate action against those responsible for organizing the event.
