Irrfan Khan says introspection needed rather than fasting during Ramadan, gets slammed by clerics

Irrfan Khan, whose Madaari is set to release in a few days has angered a lot of people by raising questions about Ramadan and Muharram. He was quoted saying by India Today: 

"Rather than fasting during Ramzan, people should self-introspect. Animals are being slaughtered on the name of qurbaani during Muharram. We, Muslims, have made a mockery of Muharram. It is meant for mourning and what we do? Take out (tajiya) processions." 

He was also quoted as criticising Muslims for not speaking up against terrorism: “"Why Muslims are silent against the issue of terrorism. People should also question the politicians over this issue," he said.

Khan’s remarks caused some controversy as clerics in Jaipur, the actor’s hometown hit back. Maulana Abdul Wahid Khatri, state secretary of Jamaat-e-Ulema-e-Hind asked him to concentrate on his film career and not speak about religion. "It would be better if he concentrates on his film career and not make random statements about our religion. He is doing this just for the publicity of his upcoming movie," Khatri said.

Sher Qazi Khalid Usmani, Jaipur’s Shaher Qazi (chief jurist)said: “He should keep his mouth shut as he has no knowledge about the religion.” 

Madaari directed by Nishikant Kamat is scheduled for release on July 15 2016.