The Shariah Status of Non-Islamic Festivals

Abstract

Islam has granted Muslims two legitimate occasions for celebration: Eid  ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha. Any celebration beyond these, particularly those borrowed from other religions or cultures, is impermissible in Islam. Christmas, for example, commemorates the birth of Jesus (peace be upon him), and Muslim participation in its rituals (like exchanging gifts) is considered imitation of non-believers, which is strictly prohibited. Similarly, Valentine’s Day, rooted in the story of a Christian monk’s illicit affair, promotes immorality and free mixing of the sexes without marriages, contradicting Islamic values of modesty. Basant, often mistaken as a cultural or seasonal event, is in fact a Hindu religious festival tied to a blasphemous figure, Haqeeqat Rai. It involves kite flying but also leads to dangerous accidents and public indecency. Despite its apparent festivity, it remains religiously inappropriate for Muslims. Lastly, April fool’s Day encourages lying and mockery, with origins possibly linked to the killing or ridicule of religious figures or Muslims. Islam strongly condemns falsehood—even as a joke—and considers it a betrayal. Muslims must avoid such festivals to uphold Islamic teachings and avoid adopting non-Islamic customs.

Keywords: Non-Islamic Festivals, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Basant, April fool’s Day