New Delhi: Religious fanaticism can lead to intolerance, and even violence.
A Muslim cleric who had recently called Mohammed Shami a ‘criminal’ for not observing roza (fasting) during Ramzan, has now pulled up the Team India pacer’s nine-year-old daughter for playing Holi, reported PTI.
An Instagram post by Shami’s estranged wife Hasin Jahan showed their daughter Aaira’s face and dress smeared with colour.
In a video released on Saturday, All India Muslim Jamaat president Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi described the Holi celebrations of Aaira Shami as ‘illegal’ and ‘against Shariat.’
“She is a small girl… If she plays Holi without understanding (it), then it is not a crime If she is sensible and still plays Holi, then it will be considered against Shariat,” Maulana Razvi stated.
Razvi said he had advised Shami to follow tenets of Islam earlier also, but a video was shared which showed his daughter celebrating Holi.
“I have appealed to Shami and his family members… Whatever is not in Shariat, do not let your children do it. Holi is a very big festival for Hindus but Muslims should avoid celebrating Holi. If someone celebrates Holi even after knowing Shariat, it is a crime,” Maulana said.
Days after criticising Shami during the Champions Trophy after images of the fast bowler sipping an energy drink surfaced on social media, the Maulana congratulated Shami for the Champions Trophy triumph.
“I congratulate Team India’s captain, all the players, and Mohammad Shami from the bottom of my heart on their success,” he said.
In Saturday’s video message, Maulana Razvi suggested that those like Shami, who could not keep fast, should do it after Ramzan.
Razvi also advised Shami to urge his family members not to belittle Shariat.