A recent fashion show held in the renowned ski resort of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan has ignited a wave of criticism across Jammu and Kashmir. The event, which featured models walking the ramp in attire deemed inappropriate by many, has drawn sharp reactions from religious and social leaders.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken cognizance of the matter and has sought a detailed report within 24 hours, promising appropriate action thereafter.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Condemns the Event

Leading the outcry against the fashion show, Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expressed his discontent on X (formerly Twitter). He termed the event as “outrageous”, highlighting that organizing such a show during Ramzan was an affront to Kashmir’s Sufi and religious culture.

“How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people?” he questioned in his post.

The Mirwaiz demanded accountability from those responsible for organizing the event, emphasizing that such acts under the pretext of tourism promotion would not be tolerated.

Omar Abdullah Calls for Action

Responding swiftly to the outrage, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the public sentiment, stating that the images from the event showed a disregard for local sensitivities.

“The shock and anger are totally understandable. The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, especially during this holy month,” Abdullah posted on X.

He assured that his office was in touch with local authorities and a report would be submitted within 24 hours. Based on the findings, he promised further action. His post was later reshared by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), reinforcing the administration’s commitment to addressing the issue.

Social Activists Decry the Fashion Show

Apart from religious leaders, social activists also expressed their outrage, accusing the event organizers of attempting to erode Kashmir’s moral and religious fabric.

Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat took to X to question the authorities responsible for allowing such an event to take place.

“Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women walking on snow. Will Tourism Deptt, CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell-bent on demolishing our moral, ethical, cultural, and religious values?” he wrote.

Government’s Next Steps

With tensions running high, the J&K administration is under pressure to take swift action against those responsible for the event. While the fashion show’s organizers have yet to issue a statement, the backlash has already led to calls for stricter regulations on events conducted in the valley—especially during religiously significant periods.

The Chief Minister’s probe will likely determine whether there were any administrative lapses in granting permissions for the event. If any violations are found, authorities may take disciplinary action against those responsible.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the Gulmarg fashion show underscores the delicate balance between tourism promotion and respect for local traditions in Kashmir. As the region strives to attract visitors, ensuring that such events align with the cultural and religious ethos of its people will be crucial to avoid similar controversies in the future.

With Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s intervention, the coming days will reveal whether the event’s organizers will face consequences or if the incident will serve as a lesson for future tourism policies in the valley.