Bareilly: Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, the National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, said on Thursday that in line with the advisory for Holi celebrations in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal, all mosques in the city have been told to hold Jummah Namaz at 2:30 p.m. instead of the usual 12 noon.
Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, while speaking to the media, said the decision to reschedule namaz timings from 12 noon to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, coinciding with Holi and Ramzan Jummah, was made after consulting Muslim clerics and imams.
He added that the decision aims to promote communal harmony and unity, allowing both communities to celebrate their festivals peacefully while also preventing potential troublemakers from disrupting the celebrations.
He also expressed optimism that both Holi and Jummah Namaz will be celebrated in a peaceful and happy atmosphere.
Sambhal's Shahi Jama Masjid indeed announced that Friday prayers on March 14 will be held at 2:30 p.m. instead of the usual time due to Holi celebrations.
The announcement was made by Jama Masjid President Zafar Ali.
The Barelvi cleric urged Muslims to avoid unnecessary outings during Holi celebrations and exercise caution when stepping out for essential tasks.
Speaking on the issue of holding namaz inside the houses, he said that such arrangements wouldn't befit the Islamic traditions.
"Holding prayers inside the house is not permitted in Islam, particularly during Jummah. It is essential that Muslims maintain their presence in the mosque while offering Jummah prayers," he added.
He also urged the community to celebrate the holy month of Ramzan with patience and discipline, suggesting that all festivals should be celebrated with harmony and mutual respect.
(inputs from IANS)