Sonmarg Snow Dance Video Triggers Widespread Outrage Across Kashmir Valley
A recently surfaced video showing bare-chested youths dancing energetically to the popular Haryanvi track 'Jaata Ka Chhora' amid the pristine, snow-covered landscape of Sonmarg has ignited significant controversy and widespread outrage across the Kashmir Valley. The visuals, which quickly gained viral traction on various social media platforms, depict the individuals waving hookahs while performing in the picturesque tourist destination, drawing sharp criticism from multiple quarters.
Political and Civil Society Backlash
The video, recorded sometime last week in Sonmarg, has been termed as provocative, insensitive, and disrespectful to local sentiments and cultural norms by political leaders and civil society members. Lieutenant General (retd) Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon expressed his strong disapproval on social media platform X, stating: "Indian soldiers and citizens made the supreme sacrifice to bring peace in Kashmir. Kashmir is definitely more beautiful without these uncouth and shabby idiots with poor upbringing. Jai Hind."
Politician Imran Reza Ansari also voiced his concerns in a post on X, remarking: "What surfaced from Sonmarg is deeply unfortunate and shameful. Kashmir has always welcomed tourists with open arms, warmth and dignity. But hooliganism in the name of 'fun'—shirtless dancing on roads, blocking traffic, harassing passersby and disturbing families—cannot and will not be tolerated."
Public Reaction and Civic Concerns
The incident has sparked a broader discussion about civic sense and appropriate behavior in sensitive tourist locations. Another user on X highlighted the disruption caused, writing: "Zero civic sense. Haryana men dance half-naked, wave hookahs and blast high-volume music in Kashmir, turning a peaceful location into a circus." The user further elaborated that such actions transform calm and beautiful spots into noisy environments, forgetting that these places are frequented by women, families, elders, and sensible individuals seeking peace and relaxation.
The criticism emphasizes that tourist destinations are not personal playgrounds but rather sensitive areas and treasures of natural beauty that require respect and preservation. The act has been condemned as simple public misbehavior rather than an expression of culture or pride, underscoring the need for greater awareness and adherence to local norms when visiting such regions.
The controversy surrounding the Sonmarg video reflects ongoing tensions between tourist activities and cultural sensitivities in Kashmir, highlighting the importance of respectful conduct in maintaining the region's harmony and natural allure.
