The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has introduced a strict set of guidelines for entry into Garba events during the upcoming Navratri festival, declaring that only Hindus will be allowed to participate. According to the VHP, the measures are intended to prevent incidents of so-called “love jihad,” a term used by right-wing groups to allege forced religious conversions through relationships.
VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair stated that Garba is not merely a dance but a sacred ritual performed to honour Goddess Durga. He said only those who have faith in Hindu traditions should take part in these celebrations. As part of the new rules, Garba organisers have been instructed to check Aadhaar cards at entry points, apply a tilak on every participant’s forehead, and ensure that attendees bow before the goddess’s image before entering.
In Nagpur, VHP Vidarbha general secretary Prashant Titre added that cow urine (gau mutra) would also be sprinkled on participants as a purification ritual. Volunteers from the VHP and Bajrang Dal will monitor Garba venues to enforce these regulations.
VHP Vidarbha convenor Navin Jain emphasised that Garba is an act of devotion, not merely entertainment. He called for a complete ban on non-Hindu participants, smoking, and any form of intoxication at the events. “People who do not believe in Goddess Durga should not be part of these programmes,” Jain said, urging organisers to remain vigilant to protect women and maintain the sanctity of the festival.
The announcement has sparked debate across social and political circles, with supporters citing cultural preservation while critics view it as an exclusionary move.
