Prothom Alo Cartoon Incident

[Rubu]

I know we had several religion related thread here before that ended in heated discussions. Still, I could not help opening this one.

I read in yesterday's prothom alo that Cartoonist Ariful Rahman was arrested for a cartoon in prothom alo's Al-Pin. Prothom alo pulled back the issue of al pin and apologized for it. Obviously, I was interested in knowing what the cartoon was.

well, here it is:



I was surprised to say the least. Are we heading toward religious intolerance? I cannot believe someone will get arrested for something as simple as this.

[Nasif]

Very sad and unfortunate if CG has arrested the cartoonist. It is the correct portrayal of our society's naming disorder. I applaud the cartoonist for portraying the message so nicely. We have reached to insane amount of "Mohammad" idolization while naming children, and, it needs to stop.

for the cartoonist. Pure genius.

[akabir77]

to me its not that simple. First of all What i know and i might be wrong that every muslim boys name should start with Mohammad even if its not in your certificate. thats like given (if you r a muslim). And making fun about this shows poor test cause in a way it makes fun of the way of the Muslim which is kinda fashion now a days.

to the cartoon

[cricket_dorshok]

Thank you Rubu for sharing the cartoons. I was searching this.
I am very much disappointed to see cartoonist got arrested.
Where are we heading?

[cricket_dorshok]

Originally Posted by akabir77
to me its not that simple. First of all What i know and i might be wrong that every muslim boys name should start with Mohammad even if its not in your certificate. thats like given (if you r a muslim). And making fun about this shows poor test cause in a way it makes fun of the way of the Muslim which is kinda fashion now a days.

to the cartoon

AKabir bhai, I don't know much about religion. Could you please tell me/give me some source where I can get that the name of Muslim should be started with 'Mohammad'.

[Nasif]

Originally Posted by akabir77
to me its not that simple. First of all What i know and i might be wrong that every muslim boys name should start with Mohammad even if its not in your certificate. thats like given (if you r a muslim). And making fun about this shows poor test cause in a way it makes fun of the way of the Muslim which is kinda fashion now a days.

to the cartoon

Naming your son "Mohammad" has nothing to with being Muslim. As a matter of fact, naming itself has nothing to with Islam or Muslim. There is no such thing as "Islamic" name. No matter how much we force this dogma, it is still a made up rule. Someone can be as good a Muslim with a name such as Leo Tolstoy, Wokabi (African) or any other name.

[Kabir]

Most North Americans will know Imam Patel.

Any idea why his name is Patel? Apparently, that is not an Arabic name, and many people say that it's not a "Muslim" name either. So to add on to Nasif bhai's thoughts, this is another problematic and unrelated thing that many Muslims will die over.

If you don't know about Imam Patel, do a quick search about him. I had the pleasure of praying in an Eid Jamat with him...although that was quite a funny incident.

[reverse_swing]

Well said Nasif. But you need to keep in mind that people of Bangladesh don’t possess the same degree of sense of sensitivities. They still have a knee-jerk emotional response to such slights against their religion and seem to have no problem expressing such bigotry.

[akabir77]

Originally Posted by Nasif
Naming your son "Mohammad" has nothing to with being Muslim. As a matter of fact, naming itself has nothing to with Islam or Muslim. There is no such thing as "Islamic" name. No matter how much we force this dogma, it is still a made up rule. Someone can be as good a Muslim with a name such as Leo Tolstoy, Wokabi (African) or any other name.

Like i said i have very little knowledge about this but what i have heard specaly after my daughter was born from the arab frineds (african and middle east) that THIS iS not a made up rule. Its kinda sunna. Sons name has to have father and grandfather and so on names on their name ( that's why u will find most arab and african people got big names). And it has to have a meaning. putting two arab words doesn't make it meaning full. I wish i could give you the source but i don't have the links that i was given 2 years back... but i am sure if you research you will find a lot of them some genuine some not so...

[akabir77]

converting into islam and new born baby name has to be a different thing ...

Anyway i shouldn't talk about something that i have very little knowledge...

[Fazal]

How pathetic.... people have to go to jail because someone thought its a bad joke or Cartoon?

I knew its comming.... more to come .... I hope i am wrong though.

[Miraz]

It's not a cartoon of a very good taste especially in a country like Bangladesh. majority people don't bear the same level of sensitiveness like most of the BC members who are educated and conscious.

Everyone should understand the level of passion muslims bear in mind about Prophet (SW) and making fun where there can be slightest correlation with Prophet (SW)'s image will invoke serious repercussions. This type of cartoon should be avoided to maintain religious harmony.

Now I want to see it from two different perspectives .. (this is what I have seen in heated discussions in other forums, definitely there are more extreme views)

1. Cartoonist Guilty

The cartoonist could have conveyed the same message using different wordings where the possibility of hurting muslim sentiment could have easily been avoided.

Firstly there is no such custom or rule that a muslim name should be started with Muhammad and making it a subject of a cartoon isn't a well thought approach.

Secondly the cartoonist wanted to use the name "Muhammad" as from a rational point of view, there was no need to ask what's the boy is carrying? (when a cat should be clearly visible). if it was a covered box and the question was asked that would have been a different proposition.

2. Cartoonist not-guilty
He simply wanted to show some exchange of words that might be common in villages and wanted to make fun out of it.

He was not aware that " the use of name "Muhammad" might hurt muslims feelings.


Now if the second was is true, I have to say the cartoonist is quite a dumb person and should exercise more caution especially in Ramadan month. But definitely he should not be arrested or harassed, he should simply apologize for hurting the muslim feelings.

If the cartoonist had any inner ill-intention (only Allah knows), may Allah give gim hidayah.

[BD-Shardul]

Usual Knee-Jerk Reaction of BD-Shardul:

Actually there is no hadeeth or any source in Islam that says that a muslim name should start with 'Mohammad'. If there were, then of course the name of the companions of our holy prophet Mohammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam would had started with 'Mohammad'.

Starting a name with Mohammad is pretty much an Indian subcontinental tradition, but I do not see any problem with that. Most of the people actually do it because of their love and respect towards the holy prophet.

Now coming to the issue, it seems to me that his work is simply making ridicle about starting a name with Mohammad. If I have wrongly interpreted the intention of the cartoonist, then can anyone of you tell me what could be the purpose of drawing such a cartoon? Refuting superstition? No way. It is true that there are many superstitions among the village people of Bangladesh about their religion, but never have I heard even a village mollah saying like "a name should start with Mohammad". My grand father's (dada) name was (late) Osman Gani, my nana's name was (late) Shamsul Islam. None of their names started with Mohammad.

Also the cartoon seemed to me a carbon copy of the following joke:

Teacher: What's your name?
Student: Omar
Teacher: How dare you are? You didn't address me with "sir". You should be polite when you talk with your teacher.

Student: OK. My name is SIR Omar.

To the people who who deamand arrest:

Guys whats the point of this arrest? Allah, the all knowing, knows best about the intention of the cartoontist, and will reward him accordingly in the hereafter. We now live in an era where holding onto imaan is like holding a piece of burning coal in hand.


To Nasif Bhai,

Yes, I agree that there is no such thing as 'Islamic' name. But still our prophet has encouraged the Muslims to choose Arabic names. Because, on the day of resurrection, we will be called upon to Allah SWT by our names. So, one can easily understand the importance of having a good name.

[akabir77]

BD-Shadrul Thanks for the info. I think one about the indian-sub thing is not totally right. Cause you will find most indian-sub people don't have Muhammad's name in their name like mine. but most arab people including african muslim follow this very strictly and when i was talking about naming my daughter they told me the stuff like at least your fathers name should be in the name ...

[reverse_swing]

Originally Posted by BD-Shardul

We now live in an era where holding onto imaan is like holding a piece of burning coal in hand.

Not sure what you wanted to say but it depends on belief system. It is the xenophobic interpretation of the faith that some misguided Muslims choose to follow that is incompatible with modern society or really any form of civilization.These muslims make Islam as regional and middle aged religion. Islam does not oppose modernity at all. Islam is for all times.Islam is not opposed to any kinda scientific research,space travels,internet or any kinda electronic gadgets.It is unfortunate that this xenophobic sect seems to be more successful at communicating their message than the silent majority. It is the interpretation and implementation of a narrow set of individuals that serve the purpose of power that pervert the enlightenment of true Islam and portray this as medieval religion.

[Rubu]

Though, understandable, I'm disappointed with Prothom Alo's handling of the case. They did not stood by their staff at all, and declared that it was printed without the approval of the editor and the cartoon was a rejected one.

Sounded to me like they are will to say or do anything to save their *back*.

[Sauron]

I loved the cartoon. It pokes fun at the same kind of zealotry and ritualistic religiousness that is on offer here from some menbers in this thread.

The cartoonist is smart ... waaay too smart for most people, obviously.

If you are so thick that the humor and sarcasm of this cartoon doesn't get to you, then I have a question for you -
What do you think about all the thieves, criminals, rapists that share that same first name? Would you say that this cartoonist is more offending than them? So offending that while the criminals roam free and this cartoonist had to be arrested?

Grow up people. Or rather, grow brains people.

[Sauron]

Originally Posted by Miraz
It's not a cartoon of a very good taste especially in a country like Bangladesh. majority people don't bear the same level of sensitiveness like most of the BC members who are educated and conscious.

I'll modify your sentence like this - It's a cartoon of a very brave nature especially in a country like Bangladesh. where majority people do not have the coherence to not go after the proverbial "Cheel" that snatched away the "Kaan" and that includes some of the BC members who are educated and conscious.

Originally Posted by Miraz
This type of cartoon should be avoided to maintain religious harmony.

This coming from someone with university education?? Tsk Tsk.

The very reason why Muhammad's (PBUH) picture do not appear anywhere is that Islam strongly condemns any idolatry. Names, pictures, words or objects do not inherently carry any sacredness.

The cartoon in question very smartly portrays how young minds are molded in our very constrictive society. I am not talking about the few Gulshanites and Banani-ians. From a very tender age the kids are taught not to question anything and obey blindly what that bearded Mullah says. When in reality that bearded Mullah is probably the most ill-educated person around.

The cartoon just shows you the effect of following the Mullah blindly. And this will affect religious harmony?? Man! What a comment.


.

[Nasif]

Originally Posted by BD-Shardul
To Nasif Bhai,

Yes, I agree that there is no such thing as 'Islamic' name. But still our prophet has encouraged the Muslims to choose Arabic names. Because, on the day of resurrection, we will be called upon to Allah SWT by our names. So, one can easily understand the importance of having a good name.

I have no problem with giving a good name. But I do have a problem if people tell me that only Arabic words can be considered as good names. Not all Arabic words are good and beautiful for name.

Good and beautiful can be very subjective at times. We can generally agree that some words don't work well for names; for example I don't think any parent would want to name their kid a Camel or Livestock (in Bangla or English). But surprisingly many parents do name their kids Camel and Livestock/Cattle in Arabic; Jamal and Anam respectively. I do not mean any disrespect to anyone who has those name. I am just trying to point out the obvious; the blind love for anything Arabic.

Arabic is just a language, and as such it consist of good and bad words. Blindly thinking anything Arabic or having Mohammad is good for my child's name is just that, "blind belief".

Unfortunately, us Muslims as a community, we encourage the blind belief; instead of knowledge and wisdom. We have forgotten the very first commandment of God, "Read."

[Zobair]

The cartoonist is sadly ahead of his time for a country like Bangladesh. Though I find it hard to believe our general populace would have reacted too harshly. He shouldn't be incarcerated for this...that would be a real shame.

[sadi]

Getting arrested for a cartoon? It's a joke. We should be better than that.

[BD-Shardul]

Originally posted by reverse_swing

Not sure what you wanted to say but it depends on belief system. It is the xenophobic interpretation of the faith that some misguided Muslims choose to follow that is incompatible with modern society or really any form of civilization.These muslims make Islam as regional and middle aged religion. Islam does not oppose modernity at all. Islam is for all times.Islam is not opposed to any kinda scientific research,space travels,internet or any kinda electronic gadgets.It is unfortunate that this xenophobic sect seems to be more successful at communicating their message than the silent majority. It is the interpretation and implementation of a narrow set of individuals that serve the purpose of power that pervert the enlightenment of true Islam and portray this as medieval religion.

Dear RS Bhai,

Let me clarify. I never believed that Islam is a back-dated religion. Rather, I always believed that Islam is the most modern way of life. The phrase 'Holding onto imaan is like holding on to a burning coal' came from one of the Haadiths of our Holy Prophet Muhammad (SM). He said, "There will be an era arrive, when holding onto imaan will be like holding a burning coal in hand". I do not have the linguistic skill to clarify the meaning of that phrase in English. So, I am quoting the follwing clarification(This clarification is written by an unknown muslim brother):

Source: http://www.imanway.com/en/showthread.php?t=324

Holding onto a Burning Coal

Day by day, year by year, as we hurtle closer to the Final Day - Yawmul-Qiyamah, the conditions in the world continue to deteriorate, as per the predictions of Sayyidina Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Fitnahs are increasing at a frightening rate, evil is proliferating swiftly and dark, ominous clouds are enveloping the horizons. In such times, holding onto one's Imaan will become a tough ordeal - the equivalent of holding onto a burning coal - as it is described in the Hadith. The analogy of the burning coal appropriately captures the agony of the people of Imaan. The coal cannot be dropped for that would mean the forsaking of Imaan, yet holding onto it is no easy task, for it requires the maximum in patience, sacrifice and perseverance, just to hold on. May Allah make it easy for all Believers.

THICK VEIL OF SUSPICION

Besides the general fitnahs of immorality and vice that prevail, a thick veil of suspicion has been cast around Islam as an evil, extreme and destructive ideology. The sincere followers and servants of Islam, committed and faithful Muslims, are portrayed as the scourge of humanity. All kinds of disparaging epithets and labels are hurled at them. In many parts of the world, it goes far beyond labelling and calling names. They are considered fair game. Every means is considered legitimate against them. The all-pervading media is used as a dangerous tool against them. Every provocative headline, every damaging media report, serves to stoke up and fuel the raging inferno of Islamophobia. And the global Muslim community inevitably is the universal victim of this craze.

THE MAKKAN PERIOD

What is to be done in these trying times? The early history of Muslims at Makkah is a source of great consolation and inspiration for persecuted Muslims. The early Muslim community, living in the Makkan crucible, was relentlessly persecuted. But this only hardened their resolve to cling more firmly to their new found ideology - Islam - which was an unparalleled blessing after the miserable and dark days of Jahiliyyah. Nothing in the world was dearer to them than the blessing of this new faith, not even their own lives. The contemporary Muslim community has valuable lessons to learn from them in these difficult days. The guiding principle for the Makkan Muslims was Sabr at every step of the torment, for “Verily Allah is close to the patient ones.” These are the times that call for patience and steadfastness. Allah Ta'ala shall bring relief in due course, as He had done for the Believers of Makkah, and other persecuted folk.

As was the charter of the Makkan believers, Muslims must work towards developing their personalities and morals, thereby acting as true ambassadors of noble Islamic values. Beautiful Islamic conduct and character must be displayed towards all of mankind.

THE WAY AHEAD

In the difficult days that prevail, the way ahead lies in turning to Allah Ta'ala for help and succour, through obedience, submission and resignation to His will. Allah never disappoints those who have hope in Him, never refuses those who ask of Him, never ignores those who quest for Him, never underpays those who work for Him, never deprives those who thank Him, never fails those who strive for Him, never allows those whose comfort is in His remembrance to be estranged from Him, never surrenders to others those who surrender to Him, never abandons those who depend on Him, and never forsakes those who trust and commit themselves to Him.

This is a time for increasing in righteous A'amaal and returning to basic Islamic teachings, because A'amaal alone shall determine our present and future destiny. Conditions are created by Allah Ta'ala, based on A'amaal. Part of the process is to shun all evil deeds, and to kick aside a corrupt lifestyle. Some of the powerful A'amaal that have always brought excellent results are Salaah, Dua, Sadaqah (charity), abundant Istighfaar and Salawaat (Durood).

Now is the time for transforming the home into a spiritual powerhouse, through: Tarbiyyah, inculcation of piety and values; Ta'leem, learning and teaching; Zikrullah; Islamic Aadaab, etiquette and Sunnah practices; and Ibaadah, by all members in the household.

May Allah be our Helper and the Protector of our greatest wealth - our priceless Imaan!

[cricket_dorshok]

Originally Posted by sadi
Getting arrested for a cartoon? It's a joke. We should be better than that.

look at the report

Cartoonist lands in jail, with no defence
Prothom Alo's freelance cartoonist Arifur Rahman was sent to jail Wednesday without any legal defence provided in court.The cartoonist is likely to face one-month's detention in jail initially, as there is a pending appeal by the prosecution. Arif was arrested on charges of offending religious sensibilities with a satirical cartoon strip.

Autocrats tried to muffle media, says Press Council chair
Press Council chairman Justice Abu Sayeed Ahmad Wednesday said every autocratic government had tried to silence the media. "The media enjoyed greater freedom in a democratic government," he said at a seminar organised to mark the third founding anniversary of Bangla-language daily Amar Desh at the National Press Club. But the chief of the media watchdog called for caution in handling sensitive issues and asked editors to "act responsibly". On a controversial cartoon published in a satire magazine of Prothom Alo, Sayeed said: "Prothom Alo didn't do the right thing by publishing it."

[cricket_pagol]

I think CG's reaction was very knee jerk, they just wanted to avoid any controversy or street protests regarding this incident. I feel sorry for the cartoonist.

BTW, this cartoon is not that original. I remember a similar joke was used in the movie Matir Moyna. Another blogger posted an example of a similar joke used in a kids magazine run by Shibir (Source - open with IE). The media needs to play it's role in highlighting these inconsistencies.

[shaoun]

i read about the courtoon. i thought it was pictures of our prophet (s.a). but now that i see it here i am really surprised that someone can get arrested for this. and i cant believe the newspaper didnt stand by their employee. because at first i was upset thinking he drew pic of our prophet (s.a). but now i dont see any reason why he should have been arrested.