Renowned Gujarati folk singer Kinjal Dave has found herself at the center of a major controversy following her inter-caste engagement, triggering strong reactions from sections of the Brahmin community. As the debate intensified, the popular singer broke her silence and issued a firm rebuttal, asserting her right to choose her life partner and condemning what she termed as regressive social thinking.
Kinjal Dave, who enjoys a superstar status in Gujarat’s folk music scene, got engaged on December 6 to actor and businessman Dhruvin Shah. The engagement ceremony was attended by several prominent personalities, including Anandiben Patel, Governor of Uttar Pradesh and former Chief Minister of Gujarat. Despite the high-profile nature of the event, the engagement soon became controversial due to its inter-caste nature.
Parents Allegedly Boycotted by Community
Following the engagement, members of the Brahmin community reportedly announced a social boycott of Kinjal Dave’s parents, accusing the family of violating traditional norms. The development sparked outrage among her fans and reignited debate around caste-based restrictions on marriage.
In response, Kinjal Dave released a video message addressing the controversy head-on. “Two or four anti-social elements cannot decide whom I should marry,” she said, adding that educated members of society should stand up against those who attempt to “clip the wings of daughters.”
“I Will Not Stay Silent When My Family Is Targeted”
Kinjal stated that she had remained silent for weeks as discussions remained limited to her personal life. However, once her family—especially her father—was targeted, she felt compelled to speak out. “As a daughter, I cannot tolerate attacks on my parents,” she said.
Expressing pride in her identity, she added, “I am proud to be a Brahmin daughter. I have reached where I am today with the love and support of people from at least 18 communities.” Emphasizing her family’s support, she described them as her “shield” and said her father wholeheartedly supports her decision.
Criticism of Regressive Practices
Kinjal Dave also spoke candidly about outdated social customs, describing herself as a victim of the ‘Sata Pratha’, a traditional reciprocal marriage practice prevalent in some communities. Her earlier engagement to singer Pawan Joshi had reportedly ended due to complications arising from this custom.
Drawing a sharp contrast, she said, “Today, daughters are flying fighter jets like Tejas, leading military operations, fighting wars, and representing the country in Parliament. Yet, some people still want to decide a daughter’s limits and her life partner.”
She urged society to expel those who impose such restrictions, warning that social progress would remain incomplete unless such mindsets are challenged.
Warning of Legal Action
The singer also issued a clear warning against harassment. “If anyone makes derogatory comments against me or my family, I will take legal action,” she said, appealing to Brahmin leaders to isolate and discipline those spreading hatred in the name of tradition.
Community Defends Its Stand
Meanwhile, Janak Joshi, Vice President of the Panch Pargana Brahmin community, defended the community’s decision. He alleged that Kinjal Dave’s remarks reflected a “cheap mentality” and accused her of attempting to malign the community. Joshi claimed that while inter-caste marriage is not illegal, every community has its own rules and traditions, which should be respected.
He further stated that similar norms exist across various communities, including Patidars and Thakors, and argued that the issue gained prominence solely because Kinjal Dave is a celebrity.
Support From Intellectual Circles
Amid the controversy, noted Gujarati author Jay Vasavada publicly supported Kinjal Dave’s decision, calling it a matter of personal freedom and dignity.
The episode has sparked a wider debate in Gujarat over individual choice, caste-based norms, and the role of tradition in a rapidly modernizing society—placing Kinjal Dave not just as a folk icon, but as a powerful voice in a larger social conversation.
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