Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane defends putting up and decorating a Christmas tree on Christmas.
The actress had posted her video of decorating the tree on her social media account. Mawra received backlash from her fans and followers for celebrating Christmas and decorating the tree.
In her post, she extended warm Christmas greetings, writing, “Merry Merry Christmas to the white of my flag and to everyone celebrating everywhere. Love you all,” accompanied by hashtags such as ‘Christmas’ and ‘Minorities Matter.’
Her video sparked debate after one user questioned her religious beliefs. Mawra Hocane defended herself and said that beliefs are in the hearts. Symbols like trees do not signify beliefs.
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The user commented, “It’s not about minorities matter, decorating [a] tree and wishing them means you are accepting their beliefs about Christmas. No Muslim can indulge in other religions’ religious deeds. Please be sensible.”
She said,”Belief is in your heart, not in a tree. Please go read up a little more. This is exactly how minorities feel included, you don’t have to do it but let me do my part. Thank you!”
Meanwhile, tight security measures were taken on Christmas to avoid any unpleasant incident.
Islamabad Capital Police (ICP) and Pakistan Rangers have deployed over 1,500 officers to enhance security around Christian places of worship in Islamabad during Christmas celebrations. Security measures include special search and arrest points near worship places, thorough searches, constant communication with event organizers, punctuality, reasonable car parking arrangements, prevention of harassment in open areas, adequate lighting, and addressing loudspeaker violations.
Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Muneer joined Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawalpindi. Speaking on the occasion he said, “Islam teaches us the lesson of peace, friendship and encourages interfaith harmony which is the need of the hour.”
Read more: Security Enhanced in Pakistan, Bethlehem Cancels Christmas
Bethlehem, traditionally known as the “capital of Christmas,” has canceled celebrations due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and violence in the occupied West Bank. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem arrived in Bethlehem for the annual Christmas Eve procession to a subdued city. Palestinian Christians, mourning the more than 20,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza since the war began, find this Christmas particularly somber.