‘No Muslims, tilak for attendees’: VHP’s rule for Navratri garba-dandiya events across Maharashtra

In the wake of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent remarks advocating for universal oneness in New York, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has taken a firm stance against Muslim participation in garba and dandiya events during the upcoming Navratri festival across Maharashtra. The hardline organisation has also introduced stringent rules for attendees, including Aadhaar checks and the application of a tilak on their foreheads to verify their Hindu identity.

VHP national spokesperson and joint secretary, Shriraj Nair, justified the decision by stating that Muslims who oppose idol worship should not be part of the festival, as the Navratri celebration is about worshipping the Goddess. However, Nair emphasized that this restriction does not reflect the VHP's stance against any community.

He clarified that the organization is unwilling to compromise on its core agenda of religious conversion and anti-cow slaughter, and is taking these precautions to safeguard the cultural legacy of Hindus.

Nair's comments came in response to the RSS chief's assertion that anyone who believes Muslims should not be present in India should reconsider their Hindu identity. Nair affirmed that the VHP does not comment on the RSS chief's statement, reiterating their belief in social harmony and peace. They also proposed that Muslims can participate in Navratri festivities by organizing events in their mosques or homes, inviting their family members, wives, and sisters.