Ahmedabad: An announcement asking people from ‘other faiths’ to leave a garba venue in Shela on Wednesday has sparked a controversy, prompting singer Aditya Gadhvi and anchor Akash to issue clarifications on social media. During a small break, anchor Akash announced: “A humble request is that if there is any person of another faith or any Muslim, they should leave this ground, leave voluntarily. Volunteers of Vishwa Hindu Parishad are here. I am giving instructions on behalf of ‘Rang Morla’ (name of event).” He also said a VHP team was present at the venue and shared a number to report anyone from the minority community. “VHP members usually ask anchors at garba events to make such announcements,” said a source who anchors similar events.Videos of the incident went viral, after which Gadhvi distanced himself from the remarks. He said the announcement did not reflect his views. He alleged that a group of people used his platform to make an announcement he would never endorse. He said his team had not been consulted and was not involved in the episode.Gadhvi wrote on Instagram, “Garba has never asked anyone for surnames. For generations, people of every faith in Gujarat and across India have played garba, and that is what makes it ours.” He added that anyone who came to the event with love and respect for Maa Ambe was welcome, stressing that his stage was meant for music and devotion.Akash also clarified that the announcement was not his message or personal view. Ahmedabad Rural SP Om Prakash Jat said police had taken cognisance of the controversial statement and would take action against those found responsible.
