During the lead-up to the Miss Rishikesh 2025 pageant, a viral incident caused a stir in Uttarakhand when members of the Rashtriya Hindu Shakti Sangathan led by state president Raghavendra Bhatnagar protested against contestants wearing Western clothes during rehearsals. Bhatnagar declared such attire “against Rishikesh’s identity and Sanatan values,” demanding the event be stopped since it hurt social and religious sentiments. The confrontation was caught on video and widely shared on social media.

However, the contestants did not back down. Muskan Sharma, who ultimately won the Miss Rishikesh 2025 title, boldly challenged Bhatnagar’s remarks asking, “Who are you to tell us what to wear?” She urged the group to ban alcohol and cigarette shops first, arguing that adults should have the freedom to choose their clothing. She also pointed out that tourists visiting Rishikesh wear Western clothes without objection.

The pageant, organized by the Lions Club Rishikesh Royal as part of the Diwali fair, continued as planned, with finalists wearing traditional Indian outfits for the main event. More than 5,000 people attended. Organizers clarified that rehearsals allowed freedom of dress and that parents of the participants had consented to the event.

Muskan viewed her win as a symbol of breaking societal barriers and encouraging self-expression for girls from smaller towns. She plans to compete in Miss Uttarakhand and Miss India next, inspired to represent her heritage proudly while advocating for women’s rights to choice.

The incident reflected ongoing tensions in Uttarakhand around cultural norms, with right-wing groups increasingly vocal about preserving perceived traditional values. Nonetheless, the resolve displayed by the contestants represents a growing voice of youth willing to challenge restrictions and redefine cultural narratives.