A New Year’s Eve programme featuring actor Sunny Leone, scheduled to take place at a hotel in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura, was cancelled following strong opposition from religious leaders and groups who objected to the event being held in the sacred city of Braj Bhumi.
The event, planned at a bar to welcome New Year 2026, sparked protests soon after its announcement. Several seers and religious organisations voiced anger, stating that such a programme was unsuitable for a city associated with deep religious and cultural significance. They argued that Mathura’s spiritual character should be respected and protected.
The Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas submitted a letter to the district magistrate on Monday demanding that the event be cancelled. As objections grew and sentiments intensified, the organisers decided to withdraw the programme, citing respect for local beliefs and public sentiment.
Dinesh Falhari Dharmacharya, a religious leader and petitioner in the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi case, said the protest was rooted in Mathura’s identity as the land of Lord Krishna. He said such entertainment events were inappropriate for a place associated with devotion and penance, and thanked the authorities for acting in line with public feelings.
Girraj Singh, a leader of a Hindu organisation, also welcomed the decision, expressing gratitude to the Uttar Pradesh government for acknowledging the concerns of saints and residents. He said the cancellation reflected respect for the cultural and religious sentiments of the people of Braj Bhumi.
