The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has taken a stand that the Garba during Navratri is exclusively for Hindus, and that non-Hindus should not be allowed entry. According to the organization, entry should be permitted only after checking Aadhaar cards, applying a tilak, and ensuring that participants perform worship of the Goddess before joining the festivities.
VHP leaders argue that incidents of “love jihad” have taken place through Garba gatherings in the past, and therefore these restrictions are necessary. “Those who do not follow the Hindu faith should not insist on participating in Hindu festivals,” said Prashant Titare, Vidarbha regional Mantri of the VHP
To prevent people with bogus Aadhaar cards from entering, the VHP has introduced a new concept — entry only after performing Varaha Puja (worship of Lord Vishnu’s Varaha avatar). Titare explained that this move is intended to deter individuals from other religions. “Some communities may feel that performing such a ritual would lead to religious conversion, and thus they themselves would refrain from joining Garba celebrations,” he added.
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