Designers Shivan–Narresh apologise for Gulmarg fashion show

Designer duo Shivan & Narresh, who are facing backlash for displaying "obscene" garments at a fashion show held in Gulmarg last week, have issued an apology saying they deeply regret any hurt caused by their presentation during the holy month of Ramzan.

The Delhi-based designers, whose full names are Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja, showcased their skiwear collection on 7 March to mark the 15th anniversary of their label.

In an X post on Sunday, Kashmir's chief priest Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called the fashion show "outrageous". Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also took cognisance of Farooq's post, saying he has ordered an inquiry into the matter, which also triggered protests in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly on Monday.

Following criticism, Shivan & Narresh posted a statement of apology on their official X page.

"We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski & apres-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments.

"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. We remain committed to being more mindful and respectful," they said in the statement.

Kashmir's chief priest Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Sunday, 9 March, posted: "Outrageous! That In the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is organised in #Gulmarg, pictures and videos from which have gone viral sparking shock and anger among people.

"How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people? Those involved should be immediately held accountable. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in #Kashmir!" he added.

Abdullah responded to Farooq's post, saying the shock and anger are totally understandable.

"The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities and that too during this holy month. My office has been in touch with the local authorities and 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 wrote on X.

The Omar Abdullah government on 10 March, Monday denied any involvement in the controversial Gulmarg fashion show, saying the event was organised in a private hotel.

Speaking in the assembly, chief minister Omar Abdullah said the administration has been directed to investigate whether any laws were violated by the organiesrs as the event was held in a private hotel. “If any violations are found, the matter will be handed over to the police for necessary action,” he said.

The fashion show held on 7 March is being widely criticised in Kashmir, with several leaders alleging that it promoted obscenity and vulgarity. Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, PDP MLA from Pulwama, told reporters that such fashion shows are challenging and hurting the sensibilities of the Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir.

“You know how the RSS and others speak and protest against celebrations on Valentine's Day. It is an assault on our religious and cultural sensibilities. Those responsible for allowing such a vulgar event should be taken to task,” he said.

Nizamuddin Bhat, Congress MLA, also spoke against the fashion show and demanded action against those responsible for allowing it.

Farooq Ahmad Shah, NC MLA from Tangmarg, which also represents Gulmarg, said the government did not allow the fashion show, nor was the fashion show part of the ongoing ‘Khelo India Winter Games 2025’ being presently held in Gulmarg.

“The chief minister has ordered and sought a report on the event within 24 hours. Let us wait for the report,” Shah said. Tanvir Sadiq, NC spokesman, also said such events should not be allowed not only in the holy month of Ramzan but not even in the rest of the year. “The chief minister as the tourism minister had nothing to do with the holding of the event”, Tanvir said.

The chief minister also questioned the decision to deny permission to the deputy chief minister to visit Kathua, while BJP leader of the opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma was allowed,” CM Abdullah said he would not like to believe that the LoP "is the spokesman of J&K Police".

Under the UT dispensation, police, law and order and Central services, including IAS and IPS, come under the direct control of the lieutenant governor.