Belief is in your heart, not in a tree: Mawra Hocane defends Christmas post

Mawra Hocane recently found herself at the centre of a social media discussion after sharing a heartwarming Christmas celebration video, which led to contrasting opinions about religious inclusivity. In the spirit of the holiday season, the star took to her Instagram account to share a joyful video showcasing her participation in Christmas festivities. 

The video featured Mawra surrounded by vibrant decorations, including a beautifully adorned Christmas tree. In her post, she extended warm Christmas greetings, writing, "Merry Merry Christmas to the white of my flag and to everyone celebrating everywhere. Love you all," accompanied by hashtags such as 'Christmas' and 'Minorities Matter.'

However, amidst the festive cheer, the post sparked a debate when an Instagram user raised concerns about religious beliefs, questioning Mawra's involvement in another religion's practices. The user commented, "It's not about minorities matter, decorating [a] tree and wishing them means you are accepting their beliefs about Christmas. No Muslim can indulge in other religions' religious deeds. Please be sensible."

Mawra, however, pushed back. She responded to the comment, defending her stance on inclusivity and religious tolerance. She emphasised that beliefs reside in the heart and are not confined to external symbols such as a tree. Mawra encouraged understanding and acceptance, stating, "Belief is in your heart, not in a tree. Please go read up a little more. This is exactly how minorities feel included, you don't have to do it but let me do my part. Thank you!"

The exchange highlighted a clash of opinions regarding the participation of individuals from different religious backgrounds in celebrations outside their own faith. Mawra's response stressed the significance of inclusivity and respect for diverse beliefs, showcasing her support for acknowledging and honouring cultural and religious diversity. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and respecting various cultural and religious traditions, promoting harmony and inclusivity in a world marked by diversity.

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