Controversy Surrounds Navratri Garba Participation Guidelines by BJP MLA
BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma of Madhya Pradesh has made statements urging non-Hindus to embrace Sanatan Dharma to participate in Navratri's garba events. He outlined conditions such as applying a tilak and partaking in aarti. He warned against deceitful entry, highlighting the event's cultural and religious purity concerns.
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Controversy has erupted after Madhya Pradesh BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma announced that non-Hindus are welcome to partake in the cultural dance events of Navratri, provided they embrace the Sanatan Dharma. Speaking to reporters, Sharma emphasized steps like applying a tilak and participating in aarti as prerequisites for entry.
Sharma drew attention to what he described as a historical misstep, suggesting that some people might feel their parents erred in converting religions and may wish to 'return' to Hinduism. Conditions to recommence worship of the goddess included drinking 'gangajal' and consuming a tulsi leaf. Failure to meet these standards could result in serious consequences, he stated.
The statements come amidst concerns by various Hindutva organizations about potential deception at garba events. The wider narrative involves accusations of 'love jihad,' a term used by right-wing groups to allege targeted religious conversions of Hindu women. The exchange has fueled debate about cultural identity and religious participation rights.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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