'No Desire To Offend Religious Sentiments': Designers Issue Apology After Row Over Fashion Show In J&K
Delhi-based designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja said that they regret the hurt caused by the fashion during Ramadan and added that their intention was not to offend anyone or their sentiments.
The fashion designers behind the outdoor fashion show in the ski resort town of Gulmarg, that led to a huge row in Jammu and Kashmir, have apologised for hosting the event during Ramadan.
Delhi-based designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja, the designers behind the fashion show, said that they regret the hurt caused by the fashion during Ramadan and added that their intention was not to offend anyone or their sentiments.
The fashion designers had faced severe backlash for their ski-wear collection showcased in Gulmarg on 7 March, with political leaders and prominent Kashmiri clerics lashing out at the Jammu and Kashmir government over the show.
The designers said that their intention was to celebrate creativity and added that they are apologetic for any unintended discomfort.
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. (1/2)
— SHIVAN & NARRESH (@shivan_narresh) March 9, 2025
"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," a statement by the fashion designer 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. We remain committed to being more mindful and respectful," the statement added.
The fashion show in Gulmarg during the Islamic month of Ramadan had led to a row in the valley, with several prominent leaders, including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemning the event and calling it 'obscenity'.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, while criticising the fashion show said obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated.
"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?" Mirwaiz wrote in a post on X.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly also witnessed heated exchanges as opposition and treasury benches clashed over the controversial fashion show.
PDP MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz and NC MLA Tanvir Sadiq demanded an inquiry into how such an event was facilitated during Ramzan.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ordered an inquiry into the matter, while Minister Sakina Itoo confirmed outside the Assembly that the investigation was underway, considering the seriousness of the incident.
Delhi-based designer duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja, who faced severe backlash for their ski-wear collection showcased in Gulmarg on 7 March, issued an apology.
Top Headlines
