Rawalpindi embraces modest mosque nikah trend

Inflation and soaring expenses of weddings are prompting people to revive ancient wedding trends, with one of them is to hold simple nikah ceremonies in mosques.

Chaudhary Aleem Arain, a stalwart of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and chairman of Anjuman Ghulaman Mustafa, initiated this trend by opting for a modest nikah ceremony at a local mosque despite his financial capability to afford lavish wedding, grandiose celebrations. The marriage of his daughter was solemnised at the Jamila Masjid, with Pir Syed Inamul Haq and Maulana Abdul Hameed Ziai solemnised the nikah, and the groom, Adnan Shafiq, in attendance.

Expressing his reason behind this choice, Chaudhary Aleem Arain emphasised the adherence to Muhammadan Shariah and the Sunnah of the Prophet, advocating for simplicity and the avoidance of extravagant Hindu marriage rituals. He urged fellow Muslims to prioritise spiritual blessings over financial gains and to embrace the simplicity inherent in Islamic matrimonial traditions.

Historically, marriages were conducted in mosques during the early days of Islam, a practice rooted in both religious teachings and practical frugality. Reinstating this tradition not only aligns with Islamic principles but also fosters community cohesion and dispenses swift justice, potentially alleviating the burden on the judicial system.

Professor Ilyas Qureshi, a prominent figure in the Professors and Lecturers Association, lauded the revival of nikah ceremonies in mosques, emphasising the potential for easing financial burdens on families in today's challenging times, where wedding expenses in lavish venues have become exorbitant.

Malik Jawad Khalid, President of the High Court Bar Association, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the spiritual significance and legal validity of marriages conducted in mosques.

As more families contemplate returning to the simplicity and sanctity of nikah ceremonies in mosques, this trend not only symbolises a reconnection with Islamic traditions but also offers a practical solution to the financial strain associated with modern-day lavish wedding ceremonies.