A Lavani performance during a Diwali Milan event at the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) office in Ganeshpeth, Nagpur, has triggered controversy after a video of the performance went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism.
According to reports, several party office-bearers, including women members, attended the celebration. Among them was Shilpa Shaheed, a Lavani artist and party worker, who was requested by women leaders to perform the Marathi Lavani “Chaha Panyala Bolva Na.” She agreed and presented the dance inside the party office, while attendees recorded the act on their phones.
The video quickly spread across social media, where users slammed the party, saying such celebrations were inappropriate at a time when many farmers in Maharashtra are suffering due to excessive rains. “Farmers’ Diwali has turned dark, while NCP workers are dancing in offices,” several comments read.
Taking serious note of the matter, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare issued a show-cause notice to Nagpur city president Anil Ahirkar, asking him to submit a written clarification within seven days. Tatkare said that holding a dance performance inside a party office had hurt the organisation’s public image and violated party discipline.
Meanwhile, Shilpa Shaheed defended her act, stating,
“I am a Lavani artist and perform everywhere. It was an internal celebration. Some women sang songs, a few men danced, and I performed only after being requested. Nothing wrong happened.”
The incident has now put the newly appointed city president Anil Ahirkar in a tough spot, as the party leadership awaits his response.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com