No DJs, dowry display at nikah: Clerics

LUCKNOW: Clerics of Jamait-Ulama-i-Hind, on Thursday, advised against the practise of hiring disc jockeys to perform during wedding celebrations in the Muslim community. The group of clerics also ordered that goods obtained as dowry should not be put on display during the wedding functions.

A meeting of the clerics, which was held in the headquarters of the body in the national capital, also advised Ulema from the community against performing `Nikah' ceremonies in marriages that did not adhere to the group's advisories. A collective decision in this regard was arrived at after the clerics concluded that such acts were against the Shariat law.

Member, Jamait-Ulama-i-Hind, Maulana Maghoobur Rahman said: "Islam preaches that all marriages be performed in the simplest of manner. A `nikah' ceremony is meant to be a pure occasion where the couple is blessed. Even Darul Uloom Deoband has issued a fatwa against ostentation in marriages ceremonies, including song and dance or the display of what has been received as dowry.''

Senior members of the community said that such traditions were looked down upon because they created a rift among the rich and poor. Vice-president, Jamait-Ulama-i-Hind, Maulana Mohammed Azhar said: "We want that all girls in the community get married well, without their parents having to worry about organising a grand wedding ceremony. Islam prescribes simplicity above all. For those who are rich, money should be spent on philanthropy, instead of being shown off on suchoccasions.''