Explained: What¡¯s controversial about Gulmarg fashion show that sparked political-religious firestorm in J&K?

A high-profile fashion show in the picturesque background of Gulmarg, featuring the bold and edgy designs of Shivan & Narresh, has exploded into a full-blown controversy. What was meant to be a celebration of their 15-year journey in luxury fashion has turned into a political and religious storm, with accusations of obscenity, disrespect to Kashmiri culture, and insensitivity during Ramadan.

Know about the event that set Kashmir ablaze

On March 7, 2025, designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja hosted a swanky fashion show at a luxury ski resort in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir. The event showcased high-fashion skiwear, apr¨¨s-ski dresses, and winter layers, set against the breathtaking snowy backdrop of the Himalayas.

Gulmarg's snowy slopes recently hosted a stunning fashion show, showcasing Kashmir's peaceful revival. But Islamist radicals & local politicians are up in arms, deeming it a 'national security threat'! Talk about misplaced priorities! Frustrated folks! #Kashmir #FashionForPeace pic.twitter.com/b9haijcaYM

¡ª Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) March 9, 2025

But what should have been a glamorous affair quickly turned into a nightmare for the designers. Videos and pictures from the show went viral, and people were furious. The biggest issue? The timing - Ramadan, the holiest month for Muslims. And the content - bold, body-hugging outfits in a region deeply rooted in traditional and religious values.

Clerics and politicians lash out in no time

Kashmir¡¯s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, led the outrage, condemning the event as ¡°outrageous and completely unacceptable.¡± He slammed the show for going against the spiritual and cultural essence of Kashmir, questioning how such a thing could be allowed in a land of saints and Sufis.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wasn¡¯t happy either. Calling the visuals from the show ¡°insensitive and tone-deaf,¡± he demanded an official report within 24 hours and assured the public that action would be taken if any rules were broken.

The Gulmarg fashion show was not organized by the government. No government money or infrastructure was used. No permissions were sought either. This has hurt the sentiments of the people. Those who organized it clearly did not think this through - CM Omar Abdullah Sahib. pic.twitter.com/xbQYIS6OUv

¡ª Sarah Hayat Shah (@SaraHayatShah) March 10, 2025

Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat was even more direct: ¡°Who allowed this Nude Fashion Show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi Nude Men & Women Walking on Snow. Will Tourism Deptt, CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell-bent on demolishing our Moral, Ethical, Cultural & Religious values?¡±

Did Omar Abdullah know all along?

As the controversy gained traction, political rivals jumped into the chaos. BJP leader Sunil Sharma accused CM Omar Abdullah of playing innocent, alleging that the venue belonged to his relatives and questioning how he could claim he had no idea what was happening in his own backyard.

"Omar Abdullah lies both inside the Assembly House and outside as well. How is it possible? Such a big function was happening in your relatives' hotel, and you had no idea? I feel you only must have organized this programme,¡± Sunil said.

The outrageous fashion show in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan is a direct insult to our faith and a shameless attack on our cultural identity.

Had it been former Minister and Ex-MLA Gulmarg @GHMir_ the helm, things would have been different and public sentiments¡­ pic.twitter.com/9xo2dJaBLL

¡ª Tariq Leo (@TARIQLEO_) March 9, 2025

Even former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti slammed the event, calling it a disgrace to Kashmiri values. She warned that allowing such events to continue would destroy the moral and cultural fabric of Kashmir.

Designer-duo issues an apology

With mounting pressure, Shivan & Narresh finally broke their silence. In a carefully worded statement, they apologized for any unintentional hurt caused and insisted that their only goal was to celebrate creativity and the ski lifestyle.

The wrote, ¡°We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologise for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community.¡±

Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologize for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community.

We remain committed to being more mindful and respectful. (2/2)

¡ª SHIVAN & NARRESH (@shivan_narresh) March 9, 2025

But for many, the damage was already done. The apology wasn¡¯t enough to calm the storm. Omar Abdullah, under immense political and public pressure, has ordered an official probe. While he maintained that the event was private and had no government involvement, he assured strict action if any rules were violated.

Who are Shivan and Narresh?

For those unfamiliar, Shivan & Narresh are among India¡¯s top luxury fashion designers. They made waves with India¡¯s first-ever luxury swimwear brand and have dressed celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Priyanka Chopra, and Sonam Kapoor. They specialize in bold, statement-making resort wear, but this time, their fearless fashion landed them in hot water.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.