Azaan is an integral a part of the religion , not the gadget, says veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar, asking that the Islamic call to prayer on loudspeakers should be stopped because it causes “discomfort” to others.
In a tweet on Saturday, Akhtar wondered why the practice was ‘halaal’ (allowed) when it had been , for nearly half a century within the country, considered ‘haraam’ or forbidden.
“In India for nearly 50 years Azaan on the loud speak was Haraam. Then it became Halaal then halaal that there’s without stopping thereto , but there should be an end thereto . Azaan is ok but loud speaker does explanation for discomfort for others. I hope that atleast this point they’re going to roll in the hay themselves (sic),” Akhtar tweeted.
When a user asked his opinion on loudspeakers getting used in temples, the 75-year-old writer said everyday use of speakers may be a explanation for concern.
“Whether it is a temple or a mosque, if you’re using loudspeakers during a festival, it’s fine. But it should not be used everyday in either temples or mosques.
“For quite thousand years Azaan was given without the loud speaker. Azaan is that the integral a part of your faith, not this gadget,” he replied.
Earlier in March, Akhtar had supported the demand to shut mosques amid the coronavirus outbreak within the country, saying even Kaaba and Medina are closed thanks to the pandemic.
He had also appealed to the Muslim community to supply prayers from range in the holy month of Ramzan, which began on April 24.
“I request all the Muslim brothers that now that Ramzan is coming, please say your prayers but confirm that this does not cause problems to anyone else. The prayers that you simply neutralize the mosque, you’ll do this reception. Consistent with you, the house, the bottoms, all has been made by Him. Then you’ll do your prayers anywhere,” he had said.
