Mumbai: A fresh controversy has erupted ahead of Navratri in Maharashtra after the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced guidelines calling for Muslims to be kept out of Garba and Dandiya events and urging organisers to verify the religious identity of participants.
The VHP has suggested that organisers check attendees’ Aadhaar cards and apply a tilak on their foreheads as part of the proposed verification process. Navratri begins on October 11 this year.
VHP spokesperson and joint secretary Shriraj Nair defended the move, saying Navratri was fundamentally a religious festival centred on the worship of the Goddess rather than merely a dance or entertainment event. He questioned the participation of Muslims, whom he said do not subscribe to idol worship.
Nair maintained that the guidelines were precautionary measures intended to preserve what the organisation regards as the cultural character of Hindu festivals, rather than being directed against any particular community. He also suggested that Muslims interested in holding Navratri celebrations could organise them separately at their homes or places of worship.
‘No Muslims, Aadhaar mandatory for entry’: VHP sets rules for garba-dandiya in Maharashtra
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Raut invokes Bhagwat’s New York remarks
The VHP’s position has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut questioning whether the organisation’s stance is consistent with recent remarks by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.
Raut urged the VHP to consider Bhagwat’s recent message on Hindu-Muslim relations in New York and questioned whether the organisation disagreed with the RSS chief.
Addressing the “One World, One Humanity” faith leaders’ gathering in New York on August 29, Bhagwat said that a person who believes there should be no Muslims in Bharat could not remain a Hindu. He also stressed human dignity and the idea that different religious paths can lead towards the same goal.
The remarks have added another layer to the controversy, with critics highlighting an apparent contrast between Bhagwat’s message of social unity and the VHP’s proposed restrictions on participation in Garba and Dandiya events.
The VHP, however, has maintained its position. Nair said the organisation would not comment on Bhagwat’s remarks while reiterating that it was not against any community and supported social harmony and peace.
