UP: Muslims set example of communal harmony; change Friday prayer timings on Holi

Aligarh: Muslims in Aligarh have set an example of communal harmony. Keeping in view the sensitive situation in the city, Mufti Khalid Hameed has decided to change namaz (prayer) timings in Uttar Pradesh on Holi festival, which will be celebrated on Friday. The move is lauded from all quarters. It must be recalled that tension sparked on many occasions in Aligarh on the occasion of Holi. Holi revellers, while passing by a mosque or Muslim areas throw colours leading to clashes.

Mufti Khalid Hameed has deferred the Friday prayer timings for half an hour. The prayer which used to be offered on 1 pm will now be offered at 1:30 pm, to accommodate Holi revellers. Mufti also decided that the devotees will arrive at the masjid through the back gate instead of the main gate.

Officials also heaved a sigh of relief after the decision by the cleric. The Halwaiyaun wali masjid located at Abdul Kareem Chauraha and Moti Masjid located at Phool Chowk are in sensitive areas. The masajid are usually surrounded by Holi revellers. Officials have kept their fingers crossed as this year Holi falls on a Friday. The government has banned the use of DJ and loudspeakers for the festival.