From February 21 to February 23, 2025, Mumbai will host a unique event—a “Halal Muslim Carnival”—at Millat Ground in Andheri. The organisers describe the carnival as a fusion of Islamic values and modern trends. The event has already generated buzz on social media due to its unconventional features, which include “halal dating,” “Islamic fashion showcases,” and other surprising attractions.
Viral video highlights ‘Halal Dating’ concept
A promotional video for the upcoming “Halal Muslim Carnival” has gone viral, featuring two hijabi influencers who enthusiastically introduce the event, dubbed “Salam Ramadan 3.0.” In the video, the influencers describe it as India’s first modest fashion and award show, highlighting its unique features, including “halal dating” sessions for unmarried Muslim individuals. They explain that these sessions will be conducted under the supervision of the girl’s family to ensure adherence to Islamic principles.
The influencers further clarify that “halal dating” involves meeting in the presence of a mehram (a male relative with whom marriage is forbidden in Islam) or a wali (a guardian), ensuring that all interactions remain in line with Islamic guidelines. This concept aims to merge contemporary dating practices with traditional Islamic values, offering a modern yet respectful approach to relationships within the Muslim community.
The carnival promises a unique fusion of tradition and modernity, with several institutions, including Islamopedia and Heena Dawood’s event management company, backing the initiative. In addition to “halal dating,” the event will showcase a variety of attractions, including Islamic fashion displays and opportunities to network with prominent Muslim influencers. To encourage widespread participation, the organisers have made entry free of charge.
Controversy Surrounding ‘Halal Dating’
The concept of “halal dating” has sparked a fresh wave of debate on social media regarding the compatibility of dating with Islamic teachings. Many Muslims have criticised the idea, arguing that it contradicts Islamic principles.
One Instagram user mocked the organisers, commenting, “They’re using the name ‘halal’ to organise ‘haram’ events.” Another user dismissed it by saying, “They’re creating their own version of religion, not Islam.” Others condemned the concept, calling “halal dating” inherently “haram,” with one user suggesting, “If they’re calling this ‘halal,’ ‘Shaitan’ would be proud.”
While several Islamic scholars have declared the practice as forbidden, others argue that, if structured and supervised according to Islamic laws, such interactions might be a permissible way for unmarried individuals to explore relationships within an Islamic framework.
According to the Islam QA website, having a girlfriend or boyfriend is considered “haram” in Islam, with the website stating: “It is haram for a man to have a girlfriend, and it is haram for a woman to have a boyfriend. The harmful consequences of such relationships are clear to anyone who observes real life.”
On the other hand, Muslim scholar Mufti Menk has suggested that certain conditions could make these interactions permissible. He highlighted rules such as meeting with the intention of seeking a long-term partner, informing parents, conducting meetings in public spaces, and having a third party present during online conversations.
