The film industry has been left with a deep void after the demise of Irrfan Khan, with numerous celebrities and politicians taking to social media to pay their tributes. There are countless reasons to praise Irrfan, who won over everyone’s hearts with his straightforward attitude. Let’s take a trip back to 2016, when Irrfan sparked a controversy by questioning the rituals of fasting during the month of Ramadan and the celebration of Muharram. While promoting his film ‘Madaari’ in Jaipur, Irrfan told the press that he condemns the tradition of fasting during Ramadan.
In 2016, Irrfan stated, “Fasting during Ramadan is wrong. Instead, people should introspect. During Muharram, animals are being slaughtered in the name of sacrifice. We Muslims have made a mockery of Muharram. It’s a time for mourning, and what do we do? We take out processions with tazias.” His comments were met with severe criticism from Muslim clerics in Jaipur. In an interview with Rajdeep Sardesai, Consulting Editor of India Today TV, Irrfan reiterated his statement and explained that it had nothing to do with the release of his film ‘Madaari’. Irrfan said, “The purpose was not to create controversy. It’s something we always discuss with friends and at home.”
He further explained, “There are certain things that stay with you. Certain concerns that stay with you. You come to the conclusion that sometimes such practices are meant for a larger purpose, to set you free. To find a larger purpose. There are different purposes like Zakat. Until we understand the larger purpose, what’s the point?” Irrfan emphasized that there should be a discussion on the topic, saying, “I don’t want to start a debate. I want people to discuss it, but I don’t want to raise a flag and say ‘come and debate’.” He believes that fasting is meant for meditation, self-discovery, and understanding the larger purpose.
When it comes to religion, Irrfan said, “Every religion should introspect and see its relevance in today’s time. What they were made for and what they are doing today. When I give Zakat, it’s my responsibility to understand whether my charity is making people dependent or giving them a chance to stand on their own feet. I don’t know if religion has explained it or not. I’m not a specialist in religion. But understanding the purpose is my responsibility. Until we find relevance in today’s time, sometimes practices can mislead you. Because you get caught up in the trap of earning virtue.” Irrfan’s thoughts on religion and its practices sparked a debate, but his intention was not to create controversy, rather to encourage people to think and discuss the true purpose of these practices.
