Fashion Show in Uttar Pradesh Sparks Controversy with Inclusion of ‘Burqa’

A recent fashion show at the Sriram Group of Colleges in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, titled ‘Fashion Splash 2023,’ has stirred controversy due to the inclusion of a colorful ‘Burqa.’ The district convenor of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Muqarram Qazmi, expressed disapproval, citing concerns that such acts could provoke and hurt the sentiments of the Muslim community.

Thirteen students from the fashion designing course showcased the ‘Burqa and Hizab’ on the ramp in the presence of celebrity judges, Bollywood actress Mandakini and TV actress Radhika Gautam. While some applauded the innovative approach, dissenting voices, particularly from Muslim clerics, criticized the use of the burqa in a fashion show.

A participant defended the choice, considering it a creative way to associate the burqa with fashion, emphasizing that traditional attire could be part of the fashion narrative. Despite objections, Maulana Nazar, the State Vice-President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, acknowledged parental support and applause for their daughters’ performances.

On the other hand, Maulana Zulfikar, the State President of the Imam Association, dismissed the controversy, asserting that the fashion show was an educational endeavor unrelated to religious sentiments. Manoj Dheeman, the Director of Sriram College’s Art department, defended the students’ creativity, urging observers not to connect the efforts with religious connotations.