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‘Festivals Are Inclusive’: Amruta Fadnavis Differs with VHP’s Call to Keep Muslims Out of Garba Events
Amruta Fadnavis said the festival should include everyone as the VHP urged identity checks and barred Muslims from entry at Navratri venues.
Maharashtra state minister Nitesh Rane supported The Vishva Hindu Parishad on Monday in excluding Muslims from garba and dandiya venues during the upcoming Navratri festival, which begins October 11.
Rane alleged that 'love jihad' cases tend to increase during such festivals, asserting that those who do not follow idol worship should not participate in Hindu religious events.
The VHP issued 'guidelines' for organizers to verify participants' identities via Aadhaar cards, apply a 'tilak' on foreheads, and mandate recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa before entry.
Amruta Fadnavis, wife of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, told reporters that festivals are inclusive and said, 'I do not see anything wrong' with Muslims attending.
Organizers must navigate these conflicting views before Navratri celebrations begin, as the state prepares for events that have sparked intense debate among various groups.