Designer apologizes for 'obscene' fashion show during Ramadan in J&K
What's the story
The organizers of a fashion show in Jammu and Kashmir have apologized following criticism that the event was "outrageous" and "obscene."
The show, which had models strutting in skimpy outfits, was hosted at a Gulmarg ski resort during the holy month of Ramadan.
Luxury brand Shivan and Narresh said they were deeply sorry if they offended anyone, stating, "Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski and apres-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or religious sentiments."
Twitter Post
Read the apology here
We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski & après-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments. (1/2)
— SHIVAN & NARRESH (@shivan_narresh) March 9, 2025
Political fallout
Event sparked political controversy, inquiry ordered
The fashion show created much controversy after the models' pictures went viral.
After the backlash, J&K CM Omar Abdullah clarified it was a private show without any government involvement or permission.
He accepted the public shock and anger at what he called a "complete disregard for local sensitivities and that too during this holy month."
He has ordered an inquiry into the matter.
PDP response
PDP leader criticizes the event
Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the fashion show. She described it as "deeply troubling" and an assault on Kashmiri values.
Mufti said just calling such events private doesn't absolve responsibility.
She warned that if accountability was not enforced, it could pave the way for more such incidents in the future and inflict severe damage on their culture and society.
Allegations
BJP's Sunil Sharma accuses CM of lying
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition in Assembly, Sunil Sharma (BJP), accused Abdullah of lying regarding his knowledge of the event.
Sharma asked how such a big function could take place at a hotel owned by Abdullah's relatives without him knowing.
The BJP leader suggested that Abdullah might have organized the program himself and criticized him for trying to distance himself from it after it created controversy.