'Outrageous, Obscene': Fashion Show in Gulmarg During Ramadan Triggers Huge Row

Srinagar: An outdoor fashion show at Gulmarg’s world-famous ski resort has sparked controversy for being “obscene.” The event has drawn even more criticism for being organized during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan. Several political leaders, including Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, have labeled it “outrageous” and “obscene.”

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responded to the widespread criticism, sought a report on Sunday, and assured that appropriate action would be taken after the report is examined within 24 hours.

Videos of male and female models walking the ramp to mark the 15th anniversary of the designer label Shivan & Narresh set against the backdrop of snow-laden slopes in Gulmarg on Friday went viral on the internet. Many Kashmiris objected to the outfits showcased at the event.

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Political Leaders Blast ‘Obscene’ Fashion Show

“Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramzan, an obscene fashion show is organized in Gulmarg. Pictures and videos from the event have gone viral, sparking shock and anger among people. How could this be tolerated in the Valley, known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people?” Mirwaiz, the Valley’s head priest, said in a post on X.

People’s Conference president Sajad Lone also criticized the event, stating that this was not the right time for such a show.

“I consider myself to be a person of liberal orientation and believe in dignified and mutually respectful coexistence. But this was not the best time to host such an event,” he said.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Reacts to Criticism

In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the fashion show did not take local sensitivities into account.

“The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, and that too during this holy month,” the chief minister’s office said. “I’ve asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report,” the post further stated.

Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi also condemned the event, saying it did not respect Kashmiri sentiments.

“This is what cultural invasion disguised as tourism looks like. They show an utter disregard for Kashmiri sentiments. The tourism department officials involved should be immediately taken to task, as well as the organizers, Shivan & Narresh,” he said.

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Videos Deleted from Instagram

The clips of the controversial fashion show, which featured models in the designer duo’s signature bikinis and capes with a unique winter touch, have now been deleted.

A post by a fashion magazine that read, “Designer duo Shivan and Narresh took audacious fashion to newer heights (quite literally) by staging a show in the frozen alleys of Gulmarg, Kashmir today. Celebrating their 15th anniversary, the famed maximalists brought out their classics—the bikinis and capes obviously, but also added some winter magic doused in eclectic prints and 3D ornamentation,” has also been removed.

The duo’s collection featured sculptural ski suits, statement ski separates, fluid après-ski dresses, and winter layers for both men and women.