Fashion Show in Gulmarg Sparks Outrage During Ramzan; Omar Abdullah Orders Inquiry
Srinagar: A Gulmarg fashion show controversy has erupted across Jammu and Kashmir, with several political and religious leaders condemning the event for disregarding local sensitivities during the holy month of Ramzan.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has responded to the Gulmarg fashion show controversy by ordering an inquiry, stating that a detailed report will be submitted within 24 hours.
“The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, and that too during this holy month,” Abdullah said, promising appropriate action once the report is reviewed.
The Gulmarg fashion show controversy stems from an event organized on Friday to mark the 15th anniversary of the designer label Shivan & Narresh. However, the fashion show has ignited a heated debate, with many Kashmiris expressing shock and anger over what they see as an inappropriate display during Ramzan.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Calls Fashion Show “Outrageous” and “Obscene”
The strongest condemnation of the Gulmarg fashion show controversy came from Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the event.
“Outrageous. That in the holy month of Ramzan, an obscene fashion show is organized in Gulmarg, pictures & videos from which have gone viral sparking shock and anger among people,” Mirwaiz wrote.
He further questioned how such an event could be allowed in a region known for its deep-rooted Sufi and saint culture.
“How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people? Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in Kashmir,” he added.
Mirwaiz’s strong reaction was echoed by many others in Kashmir’s political and religious circles, fueling the Gulmarg fashion show controversy even further.
Political Leaders Slam Fashion Show as “Cultural Invasion”
The Gulmarg fashion show controversy escalated as political figures from different parties joined the chorus of criticism, calling the event insensitive and unnecessary during Ramzan.
🔹 Sajad Lone, president of the People’s Conference, criticized the timing of the event, calling it “eminently avoidable.”
🔹 Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi went even further, describing the fashion show as a cultural invasion disguised as tourism promotion.
“This is what cultural invasion in the disguise of tourism looks like. They show an utter disregard for Kashmiri sentiments,” Mehdi said.
He also demanded strict action against both the Tourism Department officials and the event organizers, Shivan & Narresh, as the Gulmarg fashion show controversy continued to dominate public discussions.
Tourism vs. Cultural Sensitivities: A Divisive Debate
The Gulmarg fashion show controversy has reopened the debate over tourism promotion vs. cultural preservation.
✔ The fashion show was reportedly part of efforts to promote Kashmir as a luxury tourist destination.
✔ Gulmarg, with its stunning snow-covered landscapes, was chosen as an ideal backdrop for high-end fashion brands.
✔ However, critics argue that the timing and nature of the event clashed with the religious sentiments of the local population.
For many Kashmiris, Ramzan is a deeply spiritual month, and hosting a fashion event—especially one perceived as “obscene”—was bound to generate controversy.
While tourism remains a vital industry for the region, the Gulmarg fashion show controversy has once again highlighted the need to balance economic promotion with cultural and religious sensitivities.
Omar Abdullah Orders Inquiry: What Happens Next?
In response to the growing Gulmarg fashion show controversy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken swift action, ordering:
✔ A full investigation into how the event was approved
✔ A report to be submitted within 24 hours
✔ Possible disciplinary action against responsible officials
Given the public outrage, it is likely that further restrictions will be placed on similar events in the future, particularly during religious observances.
Public Reaction: Anger, Disappointment, and Demands for Accountability
The Gulmarg fashion show controversy has sparked heated debates across social media, with Kashmiris expressing their frustration over what they see as an avoidable controversy.
📢 Some users called it an insult to Kashmiri culture, demanding that those responsible be held accountable.
📢 Others blamed the government for allowing such an event, questioning why authorities failed to anticipate the backlash.
📢 Some voices supported the event, arguing that Kashmir should not be closed off to modern cultural expressions—but these opinions were largely drowned out by criticism.
With political and religious leaders joining the protest, the Gulmarg fashion show controversy is unlikely to fade quickly.
Final Thoughts: A Lesson in Cultural Sensitivity
The Gulmarg fashion show controversy serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between modern tourism promotion and local traditions.
✔ While tourism remains a key industry for Kashmir, organizers must be mindful of local values.
✔ Timing matters—holding a fashion show during Ramzan was always going to spark backlash.
✔ The government will now face pressure to implement stricter cultural guidelines for future events.
As the 24-hour inquiry unfolds, many are waiting to see how Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responds. Will there be policy changes, or will this remain an isolated controversy?
For now, one thing is clear—the Gulmarg fashion show controversy has sparked a debate that goes beyond just tourism. It is a conversation about identity, respect, and the cultural future of Kashmir. 🎭🔥
