Designer apologises for ‘discomfort’ caused by fashion show at India ski resort during Ramadan

A fashion show held on the snowy slopes of a ski resort in India’s Muslim-majority Kashmir region during Ramadan has faced criticism for failing to respect local sensitivities.

Indian design label Shivan & Narresh apologised for organising the fashion show with a dozen models on Friday to mark their 15th anniversary, releasing their new holiday as well as skiwear collection.

Images and videos from the event were widely shared on social media, triggering some outrage among locals who called it a form of “obscenity”, particularly during Islam’s holy month.

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said the reaction was understandable given the organisers’ apparent disregard for local sensitivities.

He said his office is seeking a detailed report on the matter, promising appropriate action. “The shock and anger are totally understandable. The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities & that too during this holy month,” he said on X.

“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.”

In a statement posted on X, Shivan & Narresh issued an apology for any “unintended discomfort” caused.

“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 & après-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments,” it said.

“Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologize for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community.”

The Independent has reached out to Shivan & Narresh for a comment.

Kashmir, the Muslim-majority northernmost region of India, is currently observing the holy month of Ramadan, a period of 30 days when Muslims across the world fast and observe prayers.

Kashmir’s top cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called the fashion show “outrageous” and “obscene”.

“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,” Mr Farooq said.

“How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its sufi, culture of saints, 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.

The incident has been condemned by a range of local political parties, with the National Conference (NC) party’s member of parliament Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi saying it showed “an utter disregard for Kashmiri sentiments”.

The chief of the opposition J&K People’s Conference party Sajad Lone said the fashion show in Gulmarg was “an eminently avoidable event in the holy month of Ramadan”.

“I consider myself to be a person of liberal orientation, and believe in dignified and mutually respectful coexistence. But this was not the best time to host such an event,” Mr Lone said.