Catwalk In Burqa: Jamiat Ulema Objects, Calls For Legal Action; Muslim Students Say Tried to Make Fashion Inclusive

Jamiat Ulama expressed displeasure over the catwalk conducted by female students in burqas on the final day of Fashion Splash 2023 at Shriram Group of Colleges in Muzaffarnagar.

The organisation deems it highly objectionable, stating that instead of focusing on education, children are being entangled in inappropriate activities, according to Amar Ujala.

The theme of "Beti Padhao, Beti Bachao" was portrayed by 13 female students in burqas on the ramp as part of a fashion designing showcase. It was judged by Bollywood actress Mandakini and TV artist Radhika Gautam.

Jamiat Ulema said that the burqa cannot be a part of any fashion show and legal action should be taken against people who organised this event. The program was held on late Sunday night.

Maulana Mukarram Kajmi, the district convener of Jamiat Ulama, strongly objected to this on Monday, questioning the education system. He contended that a catwalk in burqas is provocative to the sentiments of Muslims.

He asked to not organise such events in the future and emphasised that the burqa is not a part of a fashion show but is used by Muslims for modesty.

Alina, a student from Deoband in Saharanpur, argued that they attempted to demonstrate that the burqa can be included in fashion and said, "Wearing only trendy clothes is not necessary. We have creatively incorporated the burqa into fashion designing which earlier used to have only short dresses. Our experience has been positive."

Dr Manoj Dheeman, the director of the Lalit Fine Arts Department at Shriram College, applauded the effort, stating that hijab has been showcased in connection with fashion.

He advocated for girls' progress and emphasised that no religion should be associated with education. He explained that the girls worked hard and performed well with hijab.