A fresh controversy has erupted over the participation of Muslims in Garba and Dandiya events during Navratri after spiritual preacher Dhirendra Krishna Shastri questioned their presence at such celebrations.
The debate comes after the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) called for Muslims to be barred from Garba and Dandiya events in Maharashtra during Navratri. The organisation also asked organisers to verify participants’ identities through Aadhaar cards and apply tilak to those attending.
Dhirendra Shastri Questions Muslim Participation
Speaking to news agency ANI, Shastri said Navratri was a Sanatan festival associated with traditions including Durga worship, Garba and idol worship.
He said, “This festival should be celebrated by everyone. Navratri is a Sanatan festival, part of the Sanatan tradition, and idol worship is prohibited among Muslims. We have Durga Puja, Garba festivals and idol worship, so what work do you have in my courtyard?”
His remarks have added to the debate over whether participation in Garba events should be restricted based on religious identity or beliefs.
Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane has also backed the VHP’s position. He alleged that cases of “love jihad” increase during such festivals and argued that people who do not believe in idol worship should not participate in Hindu religious events.
Ramdas Athawale Opposes VHP Appeal
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Republican Party of India leader Ramdas Athawale has opposed the VHP’s appeal.
Athawale said India is governed by the Constitution, which provides equal rights to people of different religions. He argued that people of all faiths should be able to participate in each other’s festivals.
His position differs from the VHP’s call for restrictions on Muslim participation in Garba events.
Aaditya Thackeray Questions VHP
Shiv Sena UBT MLA Aaditya Thackeray has also criticised the VHP’s appeal.
Speaking to reporters, Thackeray questioned who had the authority to decide who could participate in Hindu festivals.
He said that in Mumbai, people attending Garba, Navratri, Dahi Handi and Ganpati celebrations should primarily be seen as Mumbaikars, regardless of their language, state, religion or caste.
