The inaugural fashion show by the brand Shivan & Narresh in Kashmir's Gulmarg has faced backlash from locals and leaders for perceived offenses against the Ramadan fasting period and local customs. The event has raised questions about cultural imposition and the reaction reflects longstanding tensions in a region historically fraught with conflict.
Fashion Show Sparks Cultural Clash in Kashmir
Fashion Show Sparks Cultural Clash in Kashmir
A recent fashion event in Kashmir ignites widespread outrage amid concerns of cultural insensitivity and local sentiment disturbance.
In a picturesque snow-laden Gulmarg, Indian-administered Kashmir, a recent fashion show has ignited a fierce debate over cultural sensitivity and artistic expression. Celebrated fashion brand Shivan & Narresh debuted their skiwear collection at the resort, marking the first significant event of its kind in the region, but it quickly drew ire from locals, politicians, and religious figures alike.
Despite its intent to celebrate creativity, the event sparked outrage when videos surfaced online, depicting models in revealing outfits during the sacred month of Ramadan. The response intensified when footage of a post-show party, featuring alcoholic beverages, circulated, causing further backlash as many perceived it as a disrespectful affront to Islam and local traditions.
Critics, including community clerics, described the display as “obscene” and likened it to “soft porn,” expressing fears over cultural imposition and the normalization of Western values in a land steeped in Islamic tradition. In light of the controversy, fashion media outlets such as Elle India and Lifestyle Asia retracted their promotional videos, while designers Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja issued apologies, clarifying their goal was not to offend.
As conversations shifted from social media to Jammu and Kashmir's assembly floor, the event's impact on local sensitivities was scrutinized. Opposition leaders condemned the government's approval of the show, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah distanced his administration from the event, urging local authorities to investigate potential violations.
The situation is emblematic of Kashmiri discontent rooted in decades of complex political history, particularly following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped the region of its autonomy. Many residents see events like the fashion show as attempts by external forces to undermine their cultural identity.
Fashion journalist Shefalee Vasudev noted that while launching shows in unique locations is a common trend among designers, doing so in politically sensitive or conflict-ridden areas such as Kashmir requires careful consideration of local customs and sentiments. Locals continue to voice their distrust of outside influences, viewing such events as threats to both cultural preservation and political autonomy, further compounding a narrative of resistance against perceived encroachments on their heritage.
In an ongoing discourse about culture, identity, and artistry, the events in Gulmarg reflect a complex interplay of tradition and modernity, raising pivotal questions on what role creativity plays in societies with deep-rooted historical tensions.
Despite its intent to celebrate creativity, the event sparked outrage when videos surfaced online, depicting models in revealing outfits during the sacred month of Ramadan. The response intensified when footage of a post-show party, featuring alcoholic beverages, circulated, causing further backlash as many perceived it as a disrespectful affront to Islam and local traditions.
Critics, including community clerics, described the display as “obscene” and likened it to “soft porn,” expressing fears over cultural imposition and the normalization of Western values in a land steeped in Islamic tradition. In light of the controversy, fashion media outlets such as Elle India and Lifestyle Asia retracted their promotional videos, while designers Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja issued apologies, clarifying their goal was not to offend.
As conversations shifted from social media to Jammu and Kashmir's assembly floor, the event's impact on local sensitivities was scrutinized. Opposition leaders condemned the government's approval of the show, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah distanced his administration from the event, urging local authorities to investigate potential violations.
The situation is emblematic of Kashmiri discontent rooted in decades of complex political history, particularly following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped the region of its autonomy. Many residents see events like the fashion show as attempts by external forces to undermine their cultural identity.
Fashion journalist Shefalee Vasudev noted that while launching shows in unique locations is a common trend among designers, doing so in politically sensitive or conflict-ridden areas such as Kashmir requires careful consideration of local customs and sentiments. Locals continue to voice their distrust of outside influences, viewing such events as threats to both cultural preservation and political autonomy, further compounding a narrative of resistance against perceived encroachments on their heritage.
In an ongoing discourse about culture, identity, and artistry, the events in Gulmarg reflect a complex interplay of tradition and modernity, raising pivotal questions on what role creativity plays in societies with deep-rooted historical tensions.
