A row has broken out in Jammu and Kashmir after political and religious leaders joined forces to protest a planned spiritual retreat called 'Tantra in Silence,' scheduled to take place in the scenic Gurez valley in northern Kashmir from September 24 to 27.
The controversy gained traction after a promotional poster surfaced revealing that Swami Dhyan Sumit, the head of the Shree Rajneesh Foundation, was listed as a featured participant at the event. The revelation quickly drew criticism from local leaders who expressed unease about the nature of the gathering and its potential impact on the valley's social fabric.
Gurez valley, located in the Kupwara district near the Line of Control, is known for its pristine natural beauty and distinct cultural heritage. It has historically been considered a culturally conservative area, making the prospect of a Tantra-oriented spiritual retreat a point of contention among local stakeholders.
Religious leaders have voiced concerns that the event could introduce practices and ideologies that run counter to the traditional values and customs long cherished by the people of the region. Political representatives have echoed these sentiments, arguing that such gatherings require careful consideration of local sensitivities before being allowed to proceed.
The Shree Rajneesh Foundation, headed by Swami Dhyan Sumit, has been associated with yoga and meditation programs across various parts of India. However, its involvement in a Tantra-themed event in a region as delicate as Gurez has ignited debate about the appropriateness of hosting such activities in the area.
Organizers of the event have not yet issued a public response to the growing opposition. Authorities in the region are now monitoring the situation closely as protests continue to build momentum ahead of the scheduled dates.
Local residents have also weighed in, with many expressing hope that their concerns will be heard by both the event organizers and the administration before any final decisions are made.
