Muslim Cleric in MP Asks Community to Avoid Garba During Navratri
GG News Bureau
Ratlam, 6th Oct. A Muslim cleric in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, has urged the Muslim community to refrain from attending Garba events during the ongoing Navratri festival, citing that such activities go against Islamic teachings.
In a written message, Syed Ahmed Ali, the “Shahar Qazi” (chief Muslim cleric of the city), requested Muslim youths, women, and families to avoid Navratri fairs and Garba performances, emphasizing the need to stay home “considering the current situation.”
Ali further stated that these activities are forbidden in Islam and reiterated his appeal in a statement to PTI on Sunday. His message comes as several Garba event organizers in Ratlam have already banned non-Hindus from attending their venues, displaying banners at entry points to announce the restriction.
Meanwhile, the district has ramped up security for Navratri celebrations, with female police personnel patrolling Garba venues. Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar revealed that 25-member teams of policewomen are monitoring the areas from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. to ensure peaceful festivities.
This appeal follows a controversial statement by a BJP leader who suggested that attendees should perform “aachman,” or sip cow urine, before entering Garba pandals to confirm their Hindu identity.
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