SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who was slated to solemnise the Nikah of 60 orphan girls at a mass marriage event organized by the Al Noor Trust in Bemina, was barred by authorities due to his ongoing house arrest since September 2, the cleric’s office said. Despite his absence, the prominent religious leader virtually addressed the event, commending the efforts of the Al Noor Trust and its chairman, Shabir Ahmed Rather, along with the dedicated team behind the noble initiative.
In his virtual address, Mirwaiz underscored the significance of simplicity in Islamic weddings, urging attendees to remember that Nikah is an act of worship, not a commercial transaction. He asserted the importance of avoiding extravagant displays of wealth and wasteful customs, encouraging people to support such charitable endeavours and adhere to the Islamic tradition of modesty in marriage ceremonies.
Expressing his disappointment at being unable to participate in person, Mirwaiz condemned the government’s actions, calling it deeply regrettable that he was prevented from attending such a meaningful social initiative. “It is disheartening that I could not be there to take part in an event that highlights the spirit of simplicity and community support within the Muslim Ummah,” he remarked.
The mass marriage event, which successfully proceeded despite his absence, marks yet another instance of social organisations stepping up to support orphans and promote Islamic values in the region, even in the face of ongoing political restrictions. The Trust married 100 couples last season.
