Days after MNS chief Raj Thackeray brought the age-old issue of loudspeaker-usage for Azaan back on the table, the debate has once again risen and brought to the fore.
Mr. Thackeray has opposed to the idea of the Muslim prayers being recited through loud speakers from mosques, stating that it disturbs the non-Muslim population of the areas.
Now renowned singer Anuradha Paudwal has also jumped-into the discussion, and has called for a ban on the usage of loudspeakers.
The veteran vocalist, who’s mostly known for being the voice behind some of the most popular Hindu spiritual songs, has pointed out that even several Muslim countries have banned the usage of loudspeakers on mosques, and India should follow suit.
During an interview with Zee News, Here’s what the celebrated singer was quoted as saying:
“I have visited many places in the world. I have not seen anything like this happening except in India. I am not against any religion, but it is being forcibly encouraged here. They play Azaan on loudspeakers from Mosque. Other communities question if they can use loudspeakers why cannot others do the same.”
She further added:
“I have travelled to Middle Eastern countries. There is a ban on loudspeakers. When Muslim countries are discouraging it, what is the need for such practices in India?. It will lead to disharmony, which is not good.”
Interestingly, the issue was famously highlighted once before by singer Sonu Nigam, back in the year 2018. The controversy that followed after that was widespread, and the singer even had a fatwa issued against him, for opposing the usage of loudspeakers in mosques.