A controversy has broken out in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, after a Muslim family booked the Ram Temple Hall for their daughter’s wedding reception. The issue escalated when members of the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti objected, alleging that allowing a nikah (Islamic marriage ceremony) within temple premises would hurt religious sentiments. The group issued a sharp warning, stating that if a nikah is conducted on the premises, they would stage protests, including symbolic head-shaving and even a “procession of pigs.”
The family, however, clarified that they had booked the hall strictly for a reception, not for the nikah. As the controversy intensified, the Sood Sabha, Shimla, the body that manages the Ram Temple Hall, stepped in to clarify that the venue is open to all communities and that bookings are not made based on religion.
Clear distinction: Nikah vs reception
The temple management categorically stated that no nikah ceremony will take place at the hall. The marriage will already be solemnised at a mosque, and only a reception will be hosted at the temple hall. They also highlighted that this is not unprecedented; Muslim families have used the venue for similar functions in the past without issue.
Family calls row unnecessary
The bride’s father, Mohammad Nasir, dismissed the controversy as unwarranted, explaining that the event is purely a social gathering. He noted that many of the guests are from the Hindu community and appealed for the matter to be viewed through the lens of social harmony rather than conflict.
Appeal for calm, emphasis on harmony
Other family members also urged restraint, stating that their intention is not to offend religious sentiments but to celebrate a family occasion. They emphasised that all guidelines are being followed: only vegetarian food will be served, and the arrangements have been made in accordance with the venue’s norms.
