Jaipur Garba Shows Cancelled After Right-Wing Groups Oppose Muslim Performer

Javed Khan, an influencer with around seven lakh Instagram followers, cancelled his garba performances scheduled for October 17 and 18 in Jaipur after members of right-wing groups allegedly threatened to disrupt the events over his participation as a Muslim performer.

Khan returned the advance payment, while the organisers called off the shows, citing concerns over alleged threats from the Bajrang Dal and Sanatan Suraksha Dal.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Khan alleged that the groups were able to threaten organisers openly because they had the state government's support.

“I was born and raised in Jaipur. I have good relations with all the communities, but I have to cancel my show because of the threats given to the organisers. I do not want any loss for a businessman who was just trying to celebrate his festival,” Khan said.

He questioned why the government was allowing such threats and alleged that right-wing organisations had put up hoardings and banners across Jaipur seeking to restrict entry to garba events based on religious identity.

Khan also alleged that some people were attempting to disturb communal harmony in a city where communities had lived peacefully for years.

Organisers Cite Financial Losses

Ravi Patel, who organised the event at Moilse Club in Jaipur, said he had received calls from members of the Sanatan Suraksha Dal and Bajrang Dal warning that the event would be disrupted if a non-Hindu was allowed to perform.

Patel said the organisers had completed all preparations and sold the tickets but decided to cancel the event following the threats, despite incurring heavy losses, as they had to prioritise their safety.

The cancellation came after the organisers had completed preparations and sold tickets, leaving them facing financial losses.

Sanatan Suraksha Dal Defends Its Stand

Ravi Gautam, a member of the Sanatan Suraksha Dal, said the group opposed the participation of non-Hindus in garba events.

Gautam said the group had informed the government, organisers and administration that it would protest if non-Hindus were allowed to enter garba events. He added that the group had put up hoardings across the city and said organisers should have considered its stance before booking the event, adding that it stood by its principles, as per Indian Express.