Hyderabad, April 8: In response to the rising trend of shopping festivals and expos during Ramadan, prominent Muslim scholars in the city have urged the faithful to recenter their focus on spirituality and worship during the holy month.
Maulana Ahsan al Hamoumi, the khateeb of the Shahi Masjid in Public Gardens, addressed congregants in a recent sermon, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and worship during Ramadan. He discouraged the attendance of these expos, noting that the essence of Ramadan lies in spiritual reflection and devotion.
“Boycott such expos and teach them a lesson by this. That is, if such an affront happens in Hyderabad, they will be at a loss,” Maulana Hamoumi declared, suggesting that venues traditionally used for shopping events could instead host activities related to Ramadan, such as facilitating taraweeh prayers.
Echoing this sentiment, Maulana Husamuddin Sani, also known as Jafar Pasha, a respected religious leader associated with the Darul Uloom in Hyderabad, called upon Muslims to reclaim the spiritual essence of Ramadan. He urged the community to avoid distractions and engage in meaningful acts of worship.
“You are fasting but are wasting rozas and time,” remarked Maulana Jafar Pasha, directing his message especially toward the younger generation. He stressed the significance of Ramadan as a time for earnest prayer and seeking divine mercy.
These calls for spiritual renewal come amidst the proliferation of shopping exhibitions and festivals during Ramadan, which have increasingly attracted large crowds and celebrity endorsements over the years. These events, known for featuring entertainment, dining, and retail experiences, have been criticized by religious leaders for deviating from the traditional observance of the holy month.
In parallel, Ramadan also presents an opportunity for many youths across communities in Hyderabad to secure temporary employment. Thousands find work as waiters in local eateries, food stalls, and clothing stores, enabling them to support their households during this period.
As debates around the commercialization of Ramadan continue, these clerical voices are amplifying the importance of maintaining the spiritual essence of the month, urging a return to simplicity and worship amidst the growing festivities.
