The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has issued a controversial advisory stipulating that only Hindus may attend garba events across Maharashtra during the upcoming Navratri festival. Organisers are urged to check Aadhaar cards, apply tilak on participants, and ensure a puja is performed before entry.
The advisory states that VHP and Bajrang Dal members will actively monitor garba events to ensure compliance. “Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess. They do not believe in idol worship [apparent reference to the Muslim belief system]. Only those having faith in the rituals must be allowed to participate,” said VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair.
The announcement has triggered a wave of political reactions. Maharashtra BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule defended the advisory, saying organisers have the right to set entry conditions provided events have police permission. “Garba was a Hindu event and those from other religions should not interfere while Hindus perform garba and worship the goddess,” added Maharashtra BJP media chief Navnath Ban, who also criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut for opposing the VHP’s position.
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Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar condemned the move, asserting that the advisory sought to “set society on fire” and foment divisions along religious lines. “They want to divide society over religion and reap political benefits out of it. What VHP has said is nothing new. The organisation is born with an intention to destabilise the country,” he said.
Navratri, celebrated from September 22 to October 1 this year, is one of Maharashtra’s most prominent Hindu festivals, marked by music, dance, and devotion. Garba events draw large gatherings of youth and families, and the VHP’s advisory is expected to influence participation and security measures across the state.
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