With Holi falling on Friday, the Jumu’ah prayer timings in Lucknow, including Lucknow Eidgah, have been extended until 2 PM instead of the usual 12 noon.
The announcement was made by Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, chairman of the Islamic Centre of India and a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). He explained that since Holi celebrations would continue until 1 PM, it would be more appropriate for Muslims to offer their prayers after 2 PM instead of 12:45 PM.
The decision was taken during a peace committee meeting, particularly after a controversial statement by a police officer in Sambhal, suggesting that Muslims should stay indoors during Holi.
In Sambhal, it was agreed that Muslims would offer Jumu’ah prayers after 2:30 PM, as Holi celebrations in the area were expected to continue until then.
To maintain law and order, seven companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) will be deployed. However, prayer timings in Muslim-dominated areas remain unchanged.
Maulana Mufti Shahbuddin Razvi Barelvi also urged local mosques to comply with the decision and advised Muslims to avoid unnecessary movement during Holi.
