Fatwa row: VHP's advise for AR Rahman—time for 'ghar-wapsi'

New Delhi: Noted music composer AR Rahman recently grabbed the headlines after a fatwa was issued against him and Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi for a film based on Prophet Muhammad.

Now, it has been reported that Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) today asked Rahman to re-convert to Hindusim, stressing on 'ghar-wapsi'.

VHP joint general secretary Surendra Jain said Hindus will "welcome" the noted composer with open arms and alleged that he had converted to Islam for commercial reasons.

"The fatwa against Rahman is very unfortunate and what is more unfortunate is the language of revenge in it.... He composed music for a film not on the basis of any religion.

"I will appeal to Rahman... He should return, he should do 'ghar-wapsi'. The Hindu society is waiting for its son. We will not only welcome him with open arms but also ensure that no harm is done to him irrespective of how many fatwas are issued," Jain told reporters.

Ghar-wapsi has been a controversial programme run by certain Hindu groups aimed at converting Muslims and Christians back to Hinduism.

Iranian director Majid Majidi has directed the film "Muhammad: Messenger of God". Mumbai-based Raza Academy had objected to the film and issued a fatwa against Oscar-winner Rahman and Majidi, calling the movie against Islam.

Rahman has said he composed the music "in good faith and with no intention to cause offence".

The VHP also supported Union Minister Mahesh Sharma over his assertion that Hindu scriptures like Ramayana, Mahabharata and Gita should be made parts of school curriculum, saying teaching moral lessons was necessary to restore values in society and check heinous crimes.

Asked about holy books of other religions, Jain said it should be shown if they also give the same primacy to values as Hindu books.

(With PTI inputs)