Fatwa On New Year: An Unacceptable Stand
In a surprising turn of event, the All India Muslim Jamaat has issued a fatwa that deems New Year's celebrations as un-Islamic. The fatwa is proving to be an explosive controversy with varying reactions all over the country. According to the Jamaat, the celebration of the Gregorian New Year goes against Islamic teachings which make no provisions of festivities according to the calendars other than Islam.
The fatwa has grabbed attention and support from a section of conservative Muslims who have been majorly counteracted by other moderate Muslims who say that the fatwa actually restricts cultural practices. Certain voices allege that such proclamations only create divides among communities while stifling freedoms of individuals-most especially in a multicultural nation such as India.
Dissatisfied residents express that the fatwa defames and deteriorates the core foundation of Indian culture which should be inclusion and harmony. But on the contrary, there are supporters who strongly argue, saying the religious practices would not be always compromised.
With the argumenting mounts high, a question remains for many about the democratic way of life: can religious rulings impinge personal choices in one's life? Celebration of New Year is an illustrative debate in a society undergoing continuous struggle between tradition and modernity.
