ڈی،ایم، جی بھیرہ شریف کی 100 سالہ تقریبات
(Prof Masood Akhtar Hazarvi, Islamabad)
Title: A Look at TV Programs for Sehri and Iftar
Written by: Professor Masood Akhtar Hazarvi
As the blessed month of Ramadan begins, where light is scattered everywhere, the hustle and bustle of media houses, especially TV stations, also increases. Special broadcasts are organized on TV channels of all Islamic countries regarding Ramadan, in which various topics related to this holy month are discussed, special broadcasts are organized regarding the understanding of religion and history and biography. In addition, the format of morning shows is also changed to Ramadan special. On this occasion, special Iftar and Sehri programs on various TV channels in Pakistan also attract a large number of viewers. In this era of social media and artificial intelligence, these broadcasts have many advantages. But along with this, there are also some aspects that need reform. If we look at these programs, scholars shed light on the pure teachings of Islam, the virtues of fasting, the virtues and problems of worship, and other Islamic topics by discussing them scientifically and intellectually, which is certainly beneficial for the public. During the blessed month of Ramadan, these programs provide a spiritual atmosphere to the viewers, which includes Naat of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), recitation of the Holy Quran, and stories and events from Islamic history. In many programs, viewers are also present in front of them, who increase their knowledge by participating in question-and-answer sessions and also participate in collective prayers. There are also many programs in which deserving people are helped, welfare works are encouraged, and viewers are also invited to join these good deeds. In addition, these programs highlight the traditions and culture of different parts of Pakistan, which also creates a sense of national unity. Similarly, by inviting scholars and personalities from different schools of thought, a message of social harmony and tolerance is also given. But along with this, there are many shortcomings that need to be corrected. If attention is not paid to reform, the real purpose and spiritual maturity of Ramadan will be lost in thought over time, and only a sloppy culture will remain, devoid of any thought of the afterlife. It is seen that some programs focus more on advertisements, sponsorships, and brand promotion, due to which the real spirit of Ramadan is lost. Some Iftar and Sehri shows include unnecessary entertainment elements, such as game shows, comedy sketches, and unnecessary commotion, which are completely against the sanctity of Ramadan. Sometimes such scholars are invited who promote sectarianism through controversial statements, while the dear country, which is surrounded by sectarianism and hardships, needs unity and solidarity at this time. Similarly, it is also seen that in some programs, the times of prayers and worship are not observed, and entertainment or advertising content takes up more time. This affects the worship of the viewers, especially the times of prayers. It is also a tragedy that some channels use the holy month of Ramadan as a means of gaining ratings and add unnecessary dramatic elements or immoral content to their programs. If TV programs during Ramadan truly become a source of religious and moral education, this could be a positive development.