'Obscene' fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramazan sparks outrage in Kashmir

Obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated, said Hurriyat Conference chief and Kashmir’s head priest, Mirwaiz Umar

Srinagar: A controversy erupted on Sunday over the holding of an ‘obscene’ fashion show at the famous ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir, during the holy month of Ramazan.

 
The event, which featured provocative outfits and performances, has sparked widespread outrage among local religious leaders, including Hurriyat Conference chief and Kashmir’s head priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who has termed it as “outrageous.”

Expressing his anger, Mirwaiz In a post on X, said: “Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramadan, an obscene fashion show is organized in #Gulmarg, with pictures and videos going 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!” he added.

The fashion show, which took place in Gulmarg, quickly gained attention as videos and pictures from the event spread across social media platforms, causing widespread shock and dismay.

Many local residents and religious leaders were deeply offended by the event, considering it a blatant disregard for the cultural and religious sensitivities of the region, especially during the sacred month of Ramazan.

In response to the backlash, the Chief Minister’s Office replied to Mirwaiz's post on X: “The shock & anger are totally understandable. The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities & that too during this holy month. My office has been in touch with the local authorities & I’ve asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report.”

While Kashmir’s scenic beauty and popularity as a tourist destination are well known, it is also a place deeply rooted in its Sufi heritage and religious traditions, making the fashion show particularly controversial.

The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the balance between tourism promotion and safeguarding the cultural and religious identity of the region.