"We Are the Worst of Our Behaviour During Ramadan": Noman Ijaz Shares His Candid Thoughts on Pakistanis

Noman Ijaz is one of Pakistan's most respected and versatile actors, with a career spanning decades.

Known for his powerful performances in hit dramas like Dasht, Mera Saeen, Sang-e-Mar Mar, Alif, and Parizaad, he has built a reputation not only for his acting skills but for his ability to take on diverse and complex roles.

Noman's stardom is backed by his dedication to his craft, and his influence extends beyond just his work in television.

In a recent vlog, Noman shared some humorous yet critical thoughts about the behavior of Pakistanis during the holy month of Ramzan.

With his signature sarcasm, he reflected on how the blessed month, meant to bring people closer to spiritual reflection, often sees the worst behavior from many.

Ijaz said, “Basically, Allah sent Ramzan for Muslims, not for Pakistanis. Yes, Pakistanis do keep fasting, but they can’t bear it; they can’t control their anger during Ramzan. They bad-mouth each other on the road, they won’t wait for the signals to turn green; instead, they will start fighting and indulge in a war of abusive words. We are at the worst of our behavior during Ramzan, although we aren’t good in other months either. Also, we are so lazy and lethargic; they don’t want to work during Ramzan. They go for one Namaz and spend all the work hours in the mosque just to avoid work. You use Farz Ibadat for personal benefits. They kill the purpose of (Farz Ibadat) Worship.”

His critique of how some people use the month of Ramzan for personal convenience rather than spiritual growth speaks to a much larger issue in society.

Rather than embracing the true essence of Ramzan—patience, self-control, and empathy—there are those who struggle with the very qualities that this holy month is supposed to nurture.

In his candid commentary, Noman is not wrong.

The month, which is meant to elevate the soul, sometimes gets the best of people who fall prey to the stresses and irritations that come with fasting and the demands of daily life. This behavior stands in stark contrast to the peace and tranquility that should define this time of year.

As Noman puts it so frankly, "We are at the worst of our behavior during Ramzan," but maybe this is the year we begin to change that.