Celebrities Should Learn, Not Preach, Says Faysal Quraishi

Two video clips circulating online show actor Faysal Quraishi addressing the common criticism celebrities face when hosting Ramazan transmissions.

In one clip, Faysal speaks on the matter during a local transmission. “I’ve often seen and read people say, ‘Now, celebrities will teach us Islam.’ That is absolutely not my or anyone else’s intention. Regardless of the program, we are not here to school you. In fact, we are here to learn, too,” he begins.

Reflecting on the lessons he has learned over the years, he adds, “Believe me, this is my fourth consecutive year hosting a Ramazan transmission, and I have learned a lot myself. I have studied, grasped, realized, and understood so much that it has helped me shape my daily routine. For example, Surah Rehman has taught me to maintain a balanced sense of justice.”

Beyond discussing the issue on television, the 51-year-old actor also responds to a question about this criticism in a video shared on social media on Tuesday. “Normally, people think we shouldn’t host Ramazan transmissions because of our behavior throughout the year. They assume we preach religion. But we are not here to teach Islam; respected scholars do that. They guide us,” he clarifies.

“Alhamdulillah, we are also Muslims. We pray and fast. I don’t think we need to showcase that to the world. We also fulfill our work responsibilities. It’s not as if we compromise our values and then host these shows. That would even feel strange to us,” he states.

Faysal emphasizes that celebrities must act with respect toward their audience. “I feel that we are also learning along the way, and we would like the public to do the same,” he concludes.

His level-headed response earns appreciation from netizens, who flood the comments section with clapping emojis. “Let the world talk; that’s what it does best. You’re doing a very good job. Please, keep doing it. Love you, Faysal bhai,” one user writes.

“Allah is giving you the opportunity to sit with these respected scholars and learn the ways of faith from them. Other than that, only Allah knows who He favors. May He grant us all the ability to do good,” prays another.

“It is upsetting that we judge others and criticize their faith instead of minding our own. You aren’t doing anything that should forbid you from hosting Ramazan transmissions. Those who dictate other people’s lives are in the wrong,” another user echoes.

Also Read: Sana Faysal: ‘Marrying Faysal Quraishi Was an Escape’