MP: Navratri begins with high festive spirit; row erupts over ban on entry of non-Hindus at Garba pandals
The Navratri festival kicked off with lively energy across Madhya Pradesh, especially in Bhopal, where idols of Goddess Durga popped up in streets and neighborhoods, filling the air with excitement for the Hindu community. For nine days, people are diving into the celebrations with colorful pandals—temporary setups featuring Durga in her various forms—and energetic Garba dances. Dancers twirl in vibrant outfits and hold small sticks, making these folk performances a highlight of the festival.
Garba events draw huge crowds in cities like Bhopal, Ujjain, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Khandwa, and Khargone. But amid the festivities, tensions are rising over controversies at these Garba pandals, including reports of nuisance and strict entry rules targeting non-Hindus.
It all started when posters went up outside a Bhopal Garba pandal, clearly stating no entry for people from other communities. Right-wing groups like Sanskrit Bachao Manch and Bharatiya Yuva Morcha added fuel with slogans such as “Jihadis won’t be allowed in Garba pandals.”
BJP leaders have jumped in, pushing for tough checks. They want attendees to show Aadhaar cards and wear a tilak—a traditional mark—on their foreheads before entering. Bhopal MP Alok Sharma told reporters, “Those who don’t believe in Murti Pooja and Sanatan Dharma should stay out. Garba is for the Hindu community, and Jihadis shouldn’t dare disturb it, or they’ll face strict action.”
Rameshwar Sharma, a BJP MLA from Bhopal’s Huzur area, echoed that during an interview. He suggested people show up in dhoti-kurta outfits, apply tilak, share prasad from the goddess, and even bring family members. Leaders also called for banning western clothes like backless dresses, insisting everyone stick to traditional Indian attire to keep the Navratri spirit pure.
These demands aren’t limited to Bhopal. In Khandwa, Madhav Jha from Hindu Jagran Manch stressed valid ID proof for entry, saying, “Garba is a Hindu festival, so non-Hindus shouldn’t join.” Former Madhya Pradesh Culture Minister Usha Thakur, a BJP leader, backed the push too. “Religious leaders need to step up and run these pandals with true devotees,” she said. “I’m concerned about women and girls showing up in revealing clothes—only traditional outfits fit the festival’s vibe.”
As Navratri unfolds, these debates highlight the mix of joy and friction surrounding Garba celebrations in Madhya Pradesh, with calls to preserve cultural traditions amid the festive buzz.
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