The Muslim community in Kerala observed Eid-ul-Fitr with religious fervor on Wednesday. However, unlike previous years, discussions about the movie 'The Kerala Story' were a part of sermons at mosques. Religious leaders also emphasized the importance of compassion, fraternity, and social harmony, urging adherence to Islamic values while cautioning against vested interests.
Imam V P Suhaib Maulavi, addressing worshippers at the renowned Palayam Juma Masjid in Thiruvananthapuram, warned against efforts by certain groups to sow discord in society. He pointed to the screening of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' and the ongoing discussions surrounding it as examples of such divisive attempts.
"Such movies are propagating things that are completely baseless. I have only one thing to tell to those people who screen such movies ... we should not be become tools in the hands of those who spread lies," Maulavi said, as per a report on PTI.
During his sermon, renowned Islamic scholar Hussain Madavoor also criticized the Bollywood film, stating that the notion of "love jihad" as portrayed in the movie is unfounded.
Directed by Sudipto Sen, "The Kerala Story," which premiered last year, narrates the ordeal of a group of Kerala women coerced into converting to Islam and joining ISIS.
Kerala Celebrates Ramzan
The Muslim community in Kerala joyously celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr with traditional zeal, marking the end of the month-long religious fasting period.
People of all ages gathered at mosques throughout the state to offer prayers in the morning. Eidgahs, specially arranged prayer grounds, also saw a significant turnout of worshippers across various regions of the southern state.
Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan participated in the prayers at the renowned Beemapally Masjid, while Lok Sabha candidates Shashi Tharoor and Pannian Raveendran joined the Eidgah congregation at Palayam Juma Masjid.