A garba event scheduled in Mumbai’s Borivali has imposed conditions on the participation of Muslims, with BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay saying those attending would have to apply a tilak and participate in worship of the goddess.
The development comes amid a wider controversy in Maharashtra over Muslim participation in Navratri garba and dandiya events. Sharadiya Navratri will begin on October 11 this year, with events planned at several locations.
Gopal Shetty backs tilak condition
Former BJP MP Gopal Shetty also spoke about the participation of Muslims in garba events. He said Muslims could be allowed to participate if they attended wearing a tilak.
Shetty argued that just as Hindu leaders wear caps while attending Eid events, Muslims attending garba should not object to applying a tilak.
Event organiser Santosh Singh said special security arrangements would be made at this year’s event. He said Aadhaar cards would be checked before attendees are allowed to enter the venue.
Nitesh Rane backs restrictions proposed by VHP
Maharashtra minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane has backed the Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) call to restrict Muslim participation in Navratri garba and dandiya events across the state. He has alleged that cases described by right-wing groups as “love jihad” increase during such festivals.
Speaking to PTI Videos, Rane said attendees should undergo identity checks and suggested that they should recite the Hanuman Chalisa before being allowed entry.
Rane also supported the VHP’s demand that organisers verify participants’ identities using Aadhaar cards and apply tilak before entry.
The term “love jihad” is used by some right-wing groups to allege that Muslim men lure Hindu women into relationships with the aim of religious conversion.
How the controversy began
The controversy intensified after the VHP called for Muslims to be barred from garba and dandiya venues across Maharashtra during Navratri. The organisation also issued guidelines asking organisers to verify participants’ identities, including through Aadhaar cards, and apply tilak to attendees.
Rane subsequently endorsed the VHP’s position, saying people who do not follow idol worship should not participate in Hindu religious events.
Navratri will begin on October 11 and continue through October 19 this year.
