Golf Course is prestigious place! After Gulmarg, controversy erupts over Holi celebration at Jammu Tawi Golf Course

jj correspondent
Jammu, Mar 10: Following the uproar over the recent fashion show in Gulmarg, another issue has emerged, sparking heated debate among the people of Jammu. The decision to organize a Holi festival at the prestigious Jammu Tawi Golf Course on March 14 has raised concerns, particularly regarding the inclusion of alcoholic beverages at the event. Holi, one of the most sacred festivals for Hindus, is traditionally celebrated with devotion, joy, and a sense of community, and the idea of serving alcohol during such a festival has left many locals outraged.
In a surprising move, the Jammu government has nodded the celebration of Holi at the renowned Jammu Tawi Golf Course in Sidhara. What has particularly alarmed residents is the decision to offer a wide range of drinks, including alcoholic beverages, at an event tied to a religious and cultural festival of immense importance. The festival, coinciding with the full moon (Purnima), is considered particularly sacred, making the inclusion of alcohol during this auspicious time deeply controversial.
The beverages planned for the event include a variety of options, from alcoholic drinks such as wine, beer, and spirits, to non-alcoholic offerings like soda, fruit juices, milk, tea, and coffee. While some might find the non-alcoholic choices acceptable, the presence of alcohol-typically associated with high-end parties-has caused a stir, particularly because Holi is seen as a joyous, family-oriented festival. The inclusion of alcohol at a public event that too openly meant to celebrate this sacred festival has raised questions about the event’s appropriateness and tone.
Additionally, several event organizers have recently published advertisements promoting the Holi celebrations at the Jammu Tawi Golf Course. However, these advertisements have left out any specific details about the types of beverages being served, leading to increased anxiety within the local community. The lack of transparency regarding the event’s offerings has fueled concerns, especially since the Jammu Tawi Golf Course is a prestigious venue that is traditionally seen as a family-friendly and exclusive space. Hosting such an event without clear communication about its content undermines the values and expectations of the local population.
Unconfirmed reports also suggest that a similar event was held at the same location last year, during which wine was allegedly served, leading to chaos and discontent among attendees. This raises significant questions about the suitability of hosting such controversial events at a venue that is primarily intended for sports and leisure, rather than for social gatherings that might generate division within the community.
The situation has prompted calls for a review of the decision by the tourism department. Many have urged the authorities to reconsider the ethics of holding such events spaces like Jammu Golf Course. The decision to introduce alcohol into Holi celebrations is seen by many as an affront to the values of the Dogra community, which is deeply proud of its cultural and religious heritage.