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Shami saheb, don't give a damn': Javed Akhtar backs Mohammed Shami amid Roza controversy

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In recent days, Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has found himself at the center of a heated debate after being seen drinking water during a match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which coincided with the holy month of Ramzan. This action led to criticism from certain religious figures, notably Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, who labeled Shami's behavior as 'criminal' for not observing 'Roza' (fasting). In response, veteran lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar publicly defended Shami, urging him to disregard the backlash and emphasizing his pride in the Indian cricket team.

The Incident: Shami's Hydration During Ramzan

During a pivotal match between India and Australia in Dubai, Mohammed Shami was observed drinking water on the field. Given that the match took place during Ramzan—a month when many Muslims fast from dawn to dusk—this act drew attention and subsequently, criticism from certain quarters. Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, condemned Shami's decision not to fast, stating, "By not keeping 'Roza', he has committed a crime. He should not do this. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer to God."

Javed Akhtar's Support

In light of the criticism, Javed Akhtar took to social media to express his support for Shami. He wrote, "Shami saheb, don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai. It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud. My best wishes to you and our whole team."

Diverse Reactions from the Community

The incident has elicited a spectrum of reactions:

  • Religious Leaders: While Maulana Bareilvi criticized Shami, other religious figures offered a more nuanced perspective. Imam Shahban Bukhari of Jama Masjid defended the cricketer, stating that Shami should not be trolled and highlighting that Shariat allows flexibility for individuals who are traveling or engaged in strenuous activities.

  • Family and Cricket Associations: Shami's cousin, Mumtaz, emphasized his dedication to the sport and expressed disappointment over the criticism. He remarked, "He is playing for the country... It is very shameful that such things are being said about him." Additionally, Rohit Pawar, Chief of the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA), voiced support for Shami amid the ongoing debate.

Balancing Faith and Professional Commitments

The controversy underscores the challenges faced by athletes in reconciling personal religious practices with the demands of their professional responsibilities:

  • Physical Demands: Cricket, especially at the international level, requires peak physical performance. Fasting during Ramzan involves abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, which can be particularly challenging in high-temperature environments like Dubai.

  • Religious Flexibility: Islamic teachings provide allowances for individuals who are traveling or engaged in physically demanding tasks, permitting them to defer fasting to a later time. This flexibility acknowledges the importance of health and well-being.

Public Figures and Religious Scrutiny

Public figures, especially athletes, often find their personal choices subjected to public scrutiny:

  • Role Models: As role models, athletes' actions are closely watched, and deviations from cultural or religious norms can lead to public debate.

  • Personal Autonomy: It's crucial to recognize the personal autonomy of individuals in making decisions about their religious observances, especially when balancing them with professional obligations.

Javed Akhtar's Stance on Religious Intolerance

Javed Akhtar's defense of Shami aligns with his longstanding advocacy for secularism and criticism of religious extremism:

  • Advocacy for Secularism: Akhtar has consistently championed secular values and has been vocal against religious intolerance in various contexts.

  • Support for Individual Choices: His support for Shami reflects a broader principle of respecting individual choices concerning religious practices, especially when they intersect with professional duties.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding Mohammed Shami's decision not to fast during a crucial cricket match highlights the complex interplay between personal faith and professional commitments. While religious practices are deeply personal, public figures often navigate additional layers of scrutiny. Javed Akhtar's support emphasizes the importance of individual autonomy and the need to resist reactionary criticisms. As discussions continue, it is essential to approach such matters with empathy, understanding, and respect for personal choices.

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