A fashion show organised at a ski resort in Kashmir’s Gulmarg valley has sparked a massive controversy. The event by designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja, reportedly presented a ski wear collection. However, its timing—coinciding with the holy month of Ramzan—triggered an intense backlash from religious, political, and social circles, with the valley’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, calling it ‘outrageous’ and ‘obscene’. J&K CM Omar Abdullah has sought a report in the matterread moreA fashion show in Kashmir’s Gulmarg has sparked massive outrage, with the valley’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, calling it “outrageous” and “obscene.”The event, which reportedly showed ski wear collection, took place during the holy month of Ramzan. After images from the show surfaced online, backlash erupted from all quarters, with many accusing the organisers of disregarding local cultural and hurting religious sentiments.As criticism grew, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister
Omar Abdullah stepped in seeking a report, assuring that action will be taken over the incident. However, the controversy spilled over into the state assembly on Monday, leading to heated exchanges between the Opposition and treasury benches.AdvertisementHere’s a closer look at what happened.On March 7, 2025, designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja marked the 15th anniversary of their luxury brand with a fashion show at a renowned ski resort in Gulmarg.The collection showcased art prints from their archives, featuring sculptural ski suits, apres-ski dresses, and layered winter ensembles. However, the event’s timing—coinciding with Ramzan—sparked widespread outrage from religious, political, and social circles.Umar Farooq, the chief priest of Srinagar’s Jama Masjid and chairman of the separatist Hurriyat Conference, condemned the show, calling it unacceptable.Editor’s Picks1Bridging ‘Dili ki Doori’: How enhanced connectivity is transforming Kashmir2Explained: Why second leg of 5th Khelo India Winter Games in Kashmir have been postponed?“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,” he wrote on X.AdvertisementSocial activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat also voiced his disapproval.“Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women walking on snow. Will Tourism Department, CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell bound to demolish our moral, ethical, cultural and religious values (sic)?” he posted online.Responding to growing criticism, CM Omar Abdullah addressed the issue on Sunday, acknowledging the public anger.“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,” he wrote on X.AdvertisementRuckus in Kashmir assemblyAs the House convened, members of the National Conference (NC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and two Independent MLAs stood up to raise concerns over the controversial fashion show.They condemned the event as “obscene” and accused it of hurting public sentiments.Lawmakers demanded an inquiry into how such an event was allowed to take place during Ramzan. PDP MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz led the call for a probe, while NC MLA Tanvir Sadiq also voiced his concerns.Responding to the uproar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah clarified on Monday that an initial inquiry suggested the government had no involvement in the event.Advertisement“I want to make one thing clear – the government had no role in it,” he said. “It was a private party. They organised the function privately in a private hotel and they had privately distributed the invitation cards.”Pointing out that public sentiments had been hurt, he added, “Some people said that it should not have happened in the holy month of Ramzan, but I feel that what I saw there, leave Ramzan, it should not happen in any month of the year.”However, former Chief Minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti was unconvinced by Abdullah’s explanation, arguing that dismissing it as a “private” event was not enough.“Deeply troubling to witness vulgar images from the recent fashion show in Gulmarg. The fact that such an event which descended into an indecent spectacle took place during the sacred month of Ramadan is nothing short of shocking. It is deplorable that private hoteliers are allowed to promote such vulgarity through these events, which blatantly contradict our cultural values,” she wrote in a post on X.Also read:
J&K to get statehood soon? CM Omar reminds PM Modi of his promise, he says ‘it’ll be fulfilled’The designer duo apologisesFollowing the widespread uproar, the designer of the event, Shivan and Naresh apologised and said their sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski & apres-ski lifestyle.“Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologize for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community. We remain committed to being more mindful and respectful,” the brand said in a post on X.Elle India has also deleted the controversial reel from its official Instagram page.With input from agenciesMore from Explainers
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A fashion show in Kashmir has become the centre of attention — for all the wrong reasons. Here’s why
