Srinagar: A fashion show held in the ski resort town of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan has triggered widespread outrage in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to seek a report on the event within 24 hours. The controversy erupted after videos and pictures of the show went viral, drawing sharp criticism from religious leaders and social activists.
Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, condemned the event, calling it an act of “obscenity in the name of tourism promotion” and demanded accountability from those responsible. “Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is organised in Gulmarg, sparking shock and anger among people,” the Mirwaiz posted on X. “Such obscenity will not be tolerated in Kashmir,” he added.
Reacting to the criticism, Abdullah acknowledged the public sentiment, stating that the images showed a complete disregard for local sensitivities, especially during Ramzan. “The shock and anger are totally understandable,” he said in response to the Mirwaiz’s post. “My office has been in touch with the local authorities, and I’ve asked for a report within the next 24 hours. Further action will follow,” he added. The Chief Minister’s Office later shared his statement.
Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat also slammed the fashion show, questioning the authorities responsible for permitting it. “Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women walking on snow—will the Tourism Department and Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) clarify?” he posted on X.
