Srinagar, Mar 09 (KNO): After images of a fashion show held in Gulmarg went viral, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday sought a detailed report from the authorities within 24 hours.
The office of the Chief Minister, J&K, issued a statement expressing shock and concern over the incident (revealing fashion show) held in the world-famous ski resort in North Kashmir.
The Chief Minister, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), while acknowledging the public outrage, stated that he had taken up the matter with local authorities and had sought a detailed report within 24 hours.
“The shock & anger are totally understandable. The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, and that too during this holy month (Ramadan). My office has been in touch with the local authorities & I’ve asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours.
Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report,” the Chief Minister stated.
Pertinently, the fashion show organized was a part of the Ski & Après Ski 2025 festival, hosted by prominent designer label "Shivan & Narresh" on March 7 to mark its 15th anniversary—the brand, known for its luxury holiday wear and resort collections, showcased ski-wear designs featuring art prints from its archives on the snow—covered terrain of Gulmarg.
However, the event’s display of models in revealing attire amidst the ongoing holy month of Ramadan sparked massive outrage, with many calling it a disrespect to religious and cultural sentiments.
Chief cleric of Kashmir Mirwaiz Umar Farooq took to social media to express his anger and disappointment. “Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is organized in Gulmarg, sparking shock and anger among people. How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its sanctity?” Mirwaiz, as per KNO, wrote on his social media handle, demanding strict action against the event organizers.
Member Parliament and senior National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah wrote on X: “The images from Gulmarg are shocking. This is what cultural invasion in the disguise of 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 organisers Shivan & Narresh.”
Peoples Conference Chairman Sajad Lone, according to KNO, wrote on X: “The fashion show in Gulmarg was an eminently avoidable event, in the holy month of Ramadan. 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.”
An official told KNO that they have begun an investigation into the event and a report is expected soon—(KNO)