Pakistani actress Alizeh Shah, known for her captivating screen presence and outspoken nature, has shared her heartfelt thoughts ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, sparking conversations across social media.
With a massive following of 4.3 million on Instagram, Alizeh is adored not only for her acting in hit dramas like Ehd-e-Wafa, Ishq Tamasha, Dil Moum Ka Diya, and Khel, but also for her emotional depth and candid opinions.
As the Islamic festival of Eid-ul-Adha approaches, Alizeh took to Instagram to express her discomfort with how the Qurbani (sacrifice) is carried out and portrayed in public. Emphasizing that her intent is not to criticize, she described her post as “a humble thought from the heart.”
“Please know this is not a criticism, just a soft voice sharing a different perspective,” she wrote. “I know that Qurbani is a Sunnah, a beautiful tradition rooted in the story of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.)… But it is also true, from an Islamic standpoint, that it is not a fardh (obligatory) act for everyone… Yet, sometimes, it feels like this sacred act has turned into something else entirely.”
What particularly disturbed Alizeh were the scenes of animal sacrifice in public spaces — blood-stained roads, fearful animals, and their agonizing cries, which she said deeply affected her. She expressed concern over the insensitivity often seen in how people share pictures, videos, and even memes of Qurbani online.
“They were created by the same loving God who created us,” she said. “To see them suffer so publicly… it’s something I personally find very difficult to digest.”
Alizeh clarified that she respects those who perform Qurbani with sincerity and reverence, but urged people to reflect more on the spirit of sacrifice rather than its showcasing.
“Can we make this Eid less about how many animals we sacrifice or how big they are, and more about the spirit of giving, empathy, and humility?”
She concluded with a gentle request, “Please be mindful of the images and videos shared online. Some of us are deeply affected by them. Islam teaches mercy, compassion, and dignity for humans and animals.”
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