All India Muslim Jamaat’s national president, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi, has urged mosque leaders across Uttar Pradesh to adjust Friday prayer timings on March 29, as Holi coincides with Friday prayers.
He suggested that mosques in mixed-population areas hold Friday prayers at 2:30 pm to prevent any inconvenience during Holi celebrations.
However, in Muslim-majority areas, he stated that no change in prayer timing was necessary. He advised local religious leaders to implement these adjustments where needed.
Maulana Razvi urged Muslims to avoid stepping out unnecessarily during Holi celebrations, especially between morning and afternoon when festivities peak. “If there is an urgent need to go out, do so with caution,” he said. He advised Muslims not to react if accidentally smeared with colors. “Simply wash it off with water. It does not make clothes impure,” he clarified.
At the same time, he appealed to Hindus to respect the holy month of Ramzan and refrain from applying colors to fasting Muslims or hijab-wearing women. He urged people to guide children accordingly to ensure peaceful celebrations.
The cleric emphasised that no one should take the law into their own hands in case of disputes. “If any issue arises, report it to the authorities or elders rather than reacting impulsively,” he advised. Calling for mutual respect for religious sentiments, he warned against anti-social elements attempting to disturb Hindu-Muslim harmony.
Maulana Razvi reminded the Muslim community that Ramzan teaches patience and discipline. “The Prophet of Islam has taught that a true Muslim does not harm others through words or actions,” he said. He concluded by urging Muslims to observe Ramzan peacefully and ensure harmony during the festive period.