A school play performed on Independence Day in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, sparked widespread outrage after depicting young girls dressed in burqas as terrorists. The performance, held at Kumbharwada School, showed scenes where burqa-clad girls engaged in acts of terrorism, including a scene where a 'patriot' tears off a burqa. The portrayal drew heavy criticism for promoting Islamophobic stereotypes and demonizing Muslim women by associating their religious attire with terrorism. The video of the play went viral, prompting national condemnation from community leaders, activists, and educators who argued that such depictions spread hate and communal division in an educational setting meant for inclusion and learning. Questions have been raised about the school administration and teachers who approved the performance, highlighting concerns over bias in cultural presentations during national celebrations. (Updated 19 Aug 2025, 05:29 IST; source: link)