A high-profile fashion show held last week in the snow-covered resort town of Gulmarg, Indian-administered Kashmir, has ignited a fierce controversy. The event, organized by luxury fashion brand Shivan & Narresh, showcased their latest skiwear collection against the picturesque Himalayan backdrop. However, what was intended as a celebration of creativity quickly spiraled into a cultural and political firestorm.
The outrage began when Elle India and Lifestyle Asia shared videos from the show, featuring models in skiwear, some of which resembled underwear or bikinis. Another video of an after-party, where alcohol was reportedly consumed outdoors, further fueled the backlash. Given that the event coincided with Ramadan, many locals, religious leaders, and politicians saw it as an affront to Kashmir’s deeply rooted traditions and values.
Religious clerics condemned the show as “obscene,” while critics accused the designers of insensitivity toward the region’s conservative Muslim-majority population. Some saw the controversy as part of a broader issue—the imposition of external cultural influences on a historically contested and conflict-ridden region.
The fallout was swift. Both Elle India and Lifestyle Asia deleted their videos, and designers Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja issued an apology, stating that their sole intent was to “celebrate creativity,” not to offend. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir assembly erupted in debate, with opposition leaders questioning the government’s approval of the event. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah distanced his administration, emphasizing that it was a private initiative and ordering an investigation.
The incident has reignited discussions about cultural identity, autonomy, and the delicate balance between artistic freedom and local sensitivities. In a region where every action is viewed through a political lens, this fashion show became more than just a showcase of style—it became a symbol of the ongoing struggle over Kashmir’s cultural and political future.
