Should Muslims Be Banned From Navratri Garba Events? Amruta Fadnavis Responds After VHP's Ban Call (Video)

Amruta Fadnavis, social activist and wife of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has publicly rejected calls by right-wing organizations to bar Muslims from participating in upcoming Navratri celebrations. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Fadnavis stressed that cultural and religious festivals should foster inclusivity rather than division, directly countering demands for venue restrictions and mandatory religious checks ahead of the state's popular Garba and Dandiya nights.

Amruta Fadnavis Advocates Cultural Inclusivity

Addressing growing media debate over festival entry guidelines, Amruta Fadnavis reiterated that cultural gatherings belong to the entire community. Garba, Dandiya in Maharashtra: VHP Issues Guidelines To Keep Muslims out of Events.

"There is nothing wrong with a Muslim person attending the celebrations. If a Muslim also comes and enjoys the festival properly, I do not see anything wrong with it," Fadnavis stated.

She further described Garba as a globally recognized celebration, noting that individuals from any background should be permitted to participate or observe peacefully without unnecessary friction.

VHP and Nitesh Rane Push Strict Entry Norms

The controversy escalated after the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced plans to prevent Muslim participation in Navratri venues across Maharashtra. Calling Navratri a sacred period centered on idol worship, VHP spokespersons argued that non-believers should not take part. The organization urged event organizers to enforce strict protocols, including verifying participants' Aadhaar cards and applying traditional tilak on entry. No More DJ in Nagpur! Police Bans Loud Sound Systems and Laser Lights During Festivities.

Amruta Fadnavis Rejects VHP Call to Bar Muslims from Garba Events

#WATCH | Chandrapur, Maharashtra: On Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane backing VHP's call to bar Muslims from Navratri event, wife of CM Devendra Fadnavis & social worker Amruta Fadnavis says, "He must have said this after thinking something; I do not want to get into its depths.… pic.twitter.com/23VqzO2enT

— ANI (@ANI) September 8, 2026

Supporting the VHP's stance, Maharashtra state minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane called for mandatory identity checks and suggested attendees recite the Hanuman Chalisa prior to entry. Rane cited concerns regarding "love jihad"—a term used by right-wing groups alleging unlawful conversion—as justification for tighter security measures at public venues.

Political Divergence Ahead of Navratri

Fadnavis' stance highlights differing views within political and cultural spheres regarding the management of public festivities. While conservative groups push for strict identity filtering, several prominent public figures and cultural figures have echoed sentiments favoring open participation.

With Navratri scheduled to begin on October 11, local administrative bodies and police departments across Maharashtra are monitoring event guidelines closely to ensure public order and safety at dance venues state-wide.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 09, 2026 06:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).