Revolutionizing Faith: Mumbai Mosques Embrace ‘Azan App’ to Break Barriers and Amplify Spiritual Connection
In light of recent restrictions on loudspeakers, several mosques in Mumbai have turned to a new mobile app designed to deliver the ‘azan,’ or call to prayer, directly to worshippers via their smartphones. The app, named Online Azan, was developed by a Tamil Nadu-based company and aims to provide an immediate audio stream of the azan, allowing the faithful to stay connected to their local mosques, particularly during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan when public announcements are often limited.
Fahad Khalil Pathan, the managing trustee of Mahim Juma Masjid, highlighted the significance of this initiative, explaining that it emerged after police enforced stricter regulations on loudspeaker usage. “Officers visited our mosque warning us that continued use could lead to action, prompting us to temporarily disable our sound system,” Pathan stated. This change has particularly impacted elderly worshippers and those living nearby, who traditionally relied on the loudspeakers for the daily calls to prayer.
The app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices, not only streams the azan live, exactly as it is announced from the mosque, but also notifies users about important prayer times. Users can easily download the application, select their locality, and choose the mosque closest to them, ensuring they receive real-time notifications of the azan. Pathan noted that since the app’s launch, approximately 500 residents near the Mahim mosque have registered, contributing to a total of six mosques in Mumbai now connected to the service.
While the Bombay High Court has not outright banned loudspeakers, it has implemented sound limits-55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night. In response to police requests, the mosques have shifted to less powerful box speakers to comply with these guidelines. Pathan remarked, “We opted for innovation over confrontation. This has allowed us to maintain our spiritual connection without inconveniencing the community.”
Mohammed Ali, a co-founder of Online Azan, shared that this three-year-old company has already registered 250 mosques in Tamil Nadu. For new registrations, mosques must submit an application form, proof of address, and identification for the individual responsible for the call to prayer.
The initiative has garnered support from local political figures. Asif Farooqui, the general secretary of Mumbai Congress, praised the mosques for adapting to new technology, emphasizing, “Prayer is important, and the method of delivery should not disturb others. This shift represents a positive change.” In contrast, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has been a vocal critic of loudspeakers in mosques, claiming his campaign has led to the removal of 1,500 unauthorized loudspeakers across the city.
With the Online Azan app, temples and mosques are not just embracing modern technology but are also finding solutions that foster community spirituality while respecting public ordinances. As this initiative grows, it reflects a broader trend of adapting traditional practices to the realities of contemporary urban life in Mumbai.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/sound-of-innovation-mumbai-mosques-go-digital-with-azan-app-to-overcome-loudspeaker-curbs/article69750884.ece
Category : Mumbai
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Publish Date: 2025-06-29 10:00:00
