CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A controversy has erupted in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, after Muslims and people from other religions were reportedly asked to leave the ground during a garba event held during Navratri. Gujarati folk singer Aditya Gadhvi was performing at the event. The matter came into public discussion after a video of the incident surfaced on social media. Gadhvi, who rose to wider popularity with the song “Khalasi”, later distanced himself from the announcement and clarified that it was not his message.
The programme was held on October 14. The incident is said to have taken place during the “Rang Morla” garba event organised at Savana Party Plot on Shela Road in Ahmedabad. During a break in the programme, announcer and radio jockey Akash Trivedi appealed from the stage to non-Hindus and Muslims to leave the ground. The announcement also mentioned the presence of Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) volunteers.
After the video of the announcement circulated on social media, questions were raised over people being asked to leave on the basis of religious identity. The incident triggered a debate on the participation of different communities in collective cultural events such as garba and on the responsibility of organisers.
What did Aditya Gadhvi say? After the controversy grew, Aditya Gadhvi issued a statement on social media, saying the announcement was neither made on his behalf nor did it represent his views. He alleged that some people took control of the backstage area and used his stage for an announcement that he did not support. According to Gadhvi, his team had no prior information about it and was not involved in it.
Referring to the inclusive tradition of garba, the singer said garba had never asked anyone their surname or religious identity. He said people of different faiths in Gujarat and various parts of the country have performed garba together for generations. According to him, people who come with love and respect for the Mother should be welcomed.
The role of the VHP has also come under discussion. According to media reports, a VHP spokesperson defended the activities of workers who objected to the participation of non-Hindus in garba events. That position also drew attention. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad Rural Police said they had taken note of the controversial announcement and would take action against those found responsible.
Garba, performed during Navratri, is a traditional dance associated with worship of the Goddess and attracts large public participation. The Ahmedabad incident has raised questions about religious faith, event-related rules and inclusivity in public cultural programmes. For now, Aditya Gadhvi has made it clear that the announcement asking Muslims and people from other religions to leave does not represent his views.
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