Controversy Emerges Ahead of New Year in Uttar Pradesh
A public debate has emerged in Uttar Pradesh following comments by Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, urging people not to celebrate the New Year. His remarks, made just days before December 31, drew responses from political leaders, highlighting differing views on religious beliefs, cultural practices and personal freedom.
Cleric Cites Religious Grounds for Opposition
Islamic Teachings and New Year Celebrations
Speaking in Bareilly, Maulana Razvi stated that New Year celebrations on December 31 go against Islamic principles. He explained that such events often involve loud music, dancing and behaviour that he described as inappropriate and wasteful, which are considered forbidden under Islamic law.
According to him, these celebrations encourage excess and distract people from moral discipline. He emphasised that Islam does not recognise January as the beginning of the New Year, noting that the Islamic calendar starts with Muharram.
Cultural and Religious Calendar Differences
The cleric further pointed out that different communities follow their own calendars. He noted that in Hindu tradition, the New Year begins in the month of Chaitra, reinforcing his argument that January 1 holds no religious significance for many faiths. Religious scholars, he added, strongly oppose celebrations involving extravagance and public revelry.
Government Response: Celebration Is a Personal Choice
Minister Stresses Freedom of Choice
Reacting to the statement in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh minister Dayashankar Singh said that celebrating New Year is a matter of individual preference. He clarified that January 1 marks the New Year according to the English calendar, not India’s traditional calendars.
“There is no obligation on anyone to celebrate the New Year,” Singh said, adding that people are free to follow their beliefs without pressure.
Political Remarks Add to the Discussion
Comments on Congress Leader’s Social Media Post
During the interaction, Singh also responded to a recent social media post by Congress leader Digvijaya Singh related to the RSS and BJP. He remarked that leadership growth in the BJP is based on individual capability, unlike other parties where dynastic politics dominate decision-making.
Conclusion: Faith, Freedom and Festive Choices
The debate highlights the ongoing conversation in India around religious values, cultural diversity and personal liberty. While religious leaders emphasise faith-based traditions, political leaders continue to stress that celebrations remain a personal decision, reflecting India’s pluralistic society.
