New Year 2025 Celebration Declared Against Sharia by Bareilly Cleric
New Year 2025 Celebration: A controversial fatwa has been issued by Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, head of Darul Ifta, urging Muslims to refrain from celebrating the event. According to the cleric, celebrating New Year’s Day or even exchanging greetings is against Islamic principles.
Fatwa Declares New Year Celebrations Un-Islamic
The fatwa claims that the celebration of the English New Year is rooted in Christian traditions and religious beliefs. It further states that Muslims who engage in such festivities or wish others for the occasion are committing acts deemed inappropriate under Sharia law.
What Does the Fatwa Prohibit?
Maulana Razvi has outlined several actions considered un-Islamic, including:
Exchanging New Year greetings
Organizing parties or events
Playing music, dancing, or consuming alcohol
Lighting fireworks or indulging in noisy celebrations
Sending greetings through WhatsApp or other platforms
The cleric emphasized that these actions go against Islamic teachings and are not permissible.
Religious Context Behind the Fatwa
According to Maulana Razvi, the English New Year begins in January, which holds significance for Christians. He stated that celebrating the New Year aligns with Christian religious practices, which makes it inappropriate for Muslims to participate. He urged the Muslim community to avoid such activities and adhere strictly to Islamic values.
New Year Celebrations in India
The New Year’s Eve celebration is a global phenomenon, with hotels, resorts, and tourist spots organizing grand events. However, the fatwa has sparked debate within the Muslim community about its relevance in modern times.
Expert Opinion on Cultural Sensitivities
Religious scholars and cultural experts suggest that such fatwas reflect the diversity of opinions within communities. While some strictly follow these guidelines, others believe in adapting celebrations to modern cultural norms without compromising core religious values.
