Designer duo Shivan & Narresh have issued an apology after facing backlash for their controversial fashion show in Gulmarg last week. The event, held on March 7 to mark the 15th anniversary of their label, sparked outrage for being organized during the holy month of Ramzan.

Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, condemned the event in a post on X, calling it “outrageous.” His remarks gained traction, prompting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take cognizance of the matter. Abdullah has ordered an inquiry into the incident, which also led to heated protests in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday.

Following the criticism, the designers issued a public apology on their official X handle:

“We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski & après-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments. Respect for all cultures and traditions is at our heart, and we acknowledge the concerns raised. We sincerely apologize for any unintended discomfort and appreciate the feedback from our community.”

Farooq, in his statement, urged authorities to take immediate action: “Outrageous! That in the holy month of Ramzan, an obscene fashion show is organized in #Gulmarg, sparking shock and anger among people. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in #Kashmir!”

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responded to Farooq’s post, calling the anger and shock “totally understandable.” He expressed dismay at the disregard for local sentiments and religious sensitivities, particularly during Ramzan. “The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities and that too during this holy month. My office has been in touch with local authorities, and I have asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report,” Abdullah stated on X.

The controversy also triggered a strong reaction from social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat, who accused the organizers of attempting to “demolish the moral, religious, and ethical values of Kashmir.” Many social media users also condemned the event, questioning how such a show was allowed to take place.

In the Assembly, Abdullah assured lawmakers that the government had no involvement in the event. “Those who organized the fashion show have not applied their mind, showed disregard for public sentiment, and paid no attention to where they were organizing it and its timing. Some people are saying that such a show should not have happened in the month of Ramzan. After what I have seen, I am of the opinion that it should not have taken place any time of the year,” he said.

He further clarified that the government did not grant permission for the show and would not have allowed such an event if approached. “If the law has been violated, strict action will be taken,” he assured.

While some users appreciated the designers’ apology, the controversy continues to stir debate on the intersection of modern fashion, religious sentiments, and cultural values in Kashmir.

Dubai: Skipper Rohit Sharma delivered a captain’s knock with a brilliant half-century as a determined Team India clinched their third ICC Champions Trophy title with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final on Sunday.

Opting to bowl first after losing his 12th consecutive toss, Rohit’s side displayed disciplined bowling as India’s spinners restricted New Zealand to 251 for seven in 50 overs. Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/45) played pivotal roles in keeping the Kiwi batting lineup in check.

India’s chase of 252 was completed with six balls to spare, thanks to stellar performances by Rohit Sharma (76 off 83 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62 balls). The team faced tense moments after being well-placed at 183 for three but briefly stumbling. However, KL Rahul (34 not out off 33 balls) maintained his composure and guided India to victory, supported by Hardik Pandya’s crucial 18-run cameo.

For New Zealand, Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls), Michael Bracewell (53 not out off 40 balls), and Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29 balls) were the key contributors with the bat. Their efforts, however, were not enough to deny India another historic win.

With this triumph, India lifted the Champions Trophy without losing a single match, underscoring their dominance throughout the tournament. This marks India’s third title victory in the competition, following previous wins in 2002 and 2013—an achievement unmatched by any other team.

Brief Scores:

New Zealand: 251/7 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 53*, Rachin Ravindra 37; Kuldeep Yadav 2/40, Varun Chakaravarthy 2/45).
India: 254/6 in 49 overs (Rohit Sharma 76, Shreyas Iyer 48; Mitchell Santner 2/46, Michael Bracewell 2/28).

Celebrations erupted across Jammu and Kashmir as Team India secured a spectacular 4-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium. The thrilling win, which saw India successfully chase down a target of 252 in 49 overs, ignited massive festivities throughout the region.

In Jammu, the streets came alive with jubilant crowds waving Indian flags, bursting firecrackers, and dancing to the rhythm of traditional drums. Families, students, and people from all walks of life gathered to mark the remarkable victory, chanting “India-India” with pride and enthusiasm.

The celebrations extended to almost every district of Jammu and Kashmir, with major festivities in Jammu, Kathua, Katra, and beyond. In some parts of Jammu, fans took the excitement to another level by beginning Holi celebrations in advance, adding vibrant colors to the joyous occasion.

“We are thrilled by this incredible victory. We are proud of Captain Rahul Sharma. No team can defeat us now. India has brought back the Champions Trophy!” exclaimed one ecstatic fan.

The euphoria was not limited to J&K, as the entire nation joined in the celebrations. From bustling metros like Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai to tier-2 cities such as Nagpur, Dehradun, and Chandigarh, cricket lovers expressed their pride in Team India’s resilience and outstanding performance.

With Captain Rahul Sharma’s leadership being widely praised, the victory has united the country in celebration, reinforcing India’s dominance on the global cricket stage.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has tipped India as the favourites in Sunday’s Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, but acknowledged that the margin of advantage is minimal, given the Black Caps’ formidable track record in ICC tournaments.

India, unbeaten throughout the tournament, stormed into the final after defeating Australia in the semifinal. New Zealand, who finished second in Group A behind India, secured their spot with a dominant victory over South Africa in Lahore.

“If Any Team Can Beat India, It’s New Zealand” – Shastri

Speaking on ‘The ICC Review’, Shastri emphasized that New Zealand remains a strong contender.

“India start as favourites, but only just. If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand.”

The final will be a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy final, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets in Nairobi.

Key Players to Watch Out For

Shastri highlighted four New Zealand players who could have a decisive impact:
🔹 Rachin Ravindra – “Immensely talented, with exceptional fluency at the crease.”
🔹 Kane Williamson – “Brings stability and a calmness akin to a saint.”
🔹 Mitchell Santner – “An intelligent leader with great tactical awareness.”
🔹 Glenn Phillips – “Could be the X-factor with his all-round abilities.”

For India, Shastri pointed out Virat Kohli’s current form as a potential game-changer, while also acknowledging Williamson’s ability to seize crucial moments.

“When these guys get going, they are trouble. If you let them get their first 10-15 runs, they become doubly dangerous.”

Rachin Ravindra: A Rising Star

At just 25, Ravindra has already smashed five centuries in ICC 50-over tournaments, making him the youngest to achieve this milestone.

“I love the way he moves in the crease. His fluency is incredible. He’s either forward, back, cutting, sweeping—he plays quicks well and has a strong temperament.”

Williamson’s Leadership and Composure

Shastri lauded Williamson’s impact, especially his recent performances: 81 against India and 102 against South Africa.

“He’s like a saint, a sage meditating. He has a no-nonsense approach and supreme footwork, much like Joe Root and Kohli.”

Santner’s Captaincy and Glenn Phillips’ X-Factor

Shastri credited Santner for leading New Zealand efficiently in his first ICC event as captain.

“Captaincy suits him. He’s a smart reader of the game, and it adds an edge to his batting and bowling.”

He also highlighted Glenn Phillips as a potential Player of the Match, given his ability to change games with both bat and ball.

Shastri’s Player of the Match Predictions

🔹 India – Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja (all-round performance)
🔹 New Zealand – Glenn Phillips (“Could deliver a match-turning cameo or take crucial wickets.”)

With both teams stacked with match-winners, Sunday’s Champions Trophy final promises to be an electrifying encounter. 🏆🔥