Srinagar, Dec 08 (KNO): A major congregation of Islamic scholars in Surankote, Poonch has passed a strict resolution prohibiting the use of DJs, musical bands and dance performances during wedding ceremonies—calling such practices ‘un-Islamic’ and socially harmful.
The decision has sparked a debate in Kashmir where many people say that the similar guidelines are required to reduce wasteful expenses and restore simplicity in marriage functions.
The meeting according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) was organised under the banner of Jamaat Ahl-e-Sunnat Jammu Province that was held at Darul Uloom Rizvia Sultania, Central Jamia Masjid Sarnakote.
More than 250 Imams, Khateebs and nikah officiants representing various mosques across the region participated in the meet.
After hours of deliberations on the rising trend of lavish weddings, loud music and DJ systems, scholars issued a formal decree (Fatwa) announcing a complete ban on DJs, drums, dance, and other activities they described as “non-Islamic and morally inappropriate.”
They further decided that any family violating the order would face social boycott. “No cleric would solemnise nikah or perform funeral prayers at homes where such rules are ignored.”
In another major decision, clerics agreed that only the local Imam of an area would perform nikah ceremonies. “If families bring nikah officiants from outside without justification, action would be taken against the officiant and their registry may be seized.”
Discussing the long-pending revision of nikah fee, the scholars fixed Rs 11,000 for financially stable families, while poor families would remain exempt.
The gathering also appealed to the madrasa administrations and mosque committees to improve the salaries of religious staff suggesting them to set a minimum of Rs 15,000 for teachers and Rs 20,000 for Imams.
The clerics urged the public to adopt simple, Sunnah-based weddings by avoiding unnecessary expenses, limiting guest lists to close relatives, and serving only two basic dishes to discourage competition and extravagance.
They also stressed that communities must respect their local scholars and support them socially and financially.
As news of the Poonch decision spread, many Kashmiris voiced support, saying that the Valley is witnessing similar excessive spending at weddings.
“Lavish weddings have become a burden on families. DJs, firecrackers, 10–12 dishes—this competition is ruining people financially. Such restrictions are necessary in Kashmir as well,” said Mudasir Ahmad, a resident of Shopian.
Shabnam Jan from Srinagar said that the marriages have become a show-off culture. “People take loans just to compete others. If religious leaders in Kashmir also set firm guidelines, it will help poor families a lot,” she said.
Another local from Anantnag, Javaid Rather said, “Earlier, weddings in Kashmir used to be simple. Now the noise, DJs, processions and huge expenses have made it difficult for the people to bear it. What Poonch clerics have decided is appreciable and should be implemented across the Valley.”—(KNO)