VHP issues new Navratri guidelines in Maharashtra, bans Muslim participation and mandates tilak

VHP announced a set of guidelines for Navratri events across Maharashtra, emphasizing a strictly Hindu character for the festivities. The rules explicitly bar individuals identified as Muslims from taking part in any public Navratri programme organised by VHP‑affiliated groups, and require every participant to apply a Hindu tilak on the forehead before entering the venue. The directive has attracted criticism from civil‑society organisations and minority groups, who argue it contravenes India’s secular constitution, while VHP officials maintain the measures are intended to preserve the religious integrity of the festival. As of now, the Maharashtra state government has not issued an official response, and the guidelines are slated for implementation ahead of Navratri celebrations beginning on October 1.