Ebrahim Moosa – Cii Hajj Nerve Centre | 24 October 2012

Whilst Hajj is meant to be the universal equaliser, the pervasiveness of a global celebrity culture has left many Hujaaj curious at the activities of their more famous neighbours on the Hajj this year.

Social media is particularly abuzz with chatter surrounding a meeting reportedly held between Indian Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, cricketer Shahid Afridi and Pakistani Islamic scholar Moulana Tariq Jameel at a hotel in Makkah this week.

L-R Aamir Khan, Moulana Tariq Jameel and Shahid Afridi

Pictures of the “constructive discussion” have been widely circulated online generating many contrasting responses. Although the actor’s spiritual journey has been roundly welcomed, the excessive attention afforded to celebrities has also been criticized as being the antithesis of the Hajj.

“Wats da big deal about da cricketer ! N a actor in hajj we all suppose 2 b equal,” wrote listener Faatima Ahmed Daya on the Channel Islam International Facebook page.

Khan has taken out time out of his busy work schedule and professional commitments for the fortnight-long holy trip in order to keep a promise he made to his mother.

Apart from visiting Makkah, Aamir and family members will also visit the Blessed city of Madinah, burial place of the Prophet Muhammad(PBUH).

Maher Zain in Makkah

Also in attendance at this pilgrimage is renowned Muslim songwriter and singer Maher Zain. Last week Zain used social media to inform fans of his imminent departure for Makkah. “Just wanted to let you know that I’m going to Hajj tomorrow and I would like to ask if I’ve hurt anyone in any way that you plz forgive me..”

He has subsequently been sharing pictorial updates and commentaries on his journey with followers.

As the talkfest continues, what is indisputably clear is that during Hajj, the celebrities will be challenged to an experience that supercedes even their most electrifying routines. Instead of Bollywood, Khan will be adhering to a script laid down by Allah and which was previously enacted by Ebrahim AS and Muhammed SAW; Zain will be chanting along to the rhythms of the Talbiyah instead of ‘Number One for Me,’ and Afridi will be aiming for 3 gigantic concrete walls rather than 3 flimsy wooden stumps.

ebmoosa@ciibroadcasting.com