Recently, a disturbing video from Nowgam, Srinagar, went viral across social media, shocking the public and sparking widespread condemnation. The video showed a man ruthlessly assaulting his parents-both father and mother- with a slipper. The disturbing visuals left viewers across the valley in disbelief. Following the outrage, the local police took swift action, registering an FIR against the individual involved.
This incident is not isolated but part of a growing trend of disrespect and violence against parents, an alarming societal issue. What towards could have led a person to the point of such extreme disrespect those who gave him life?
The relationship between parents and children has always been sacred, especially in societies like ours where family values and respect for elders are foundational. In Islam, respect for parents is a duty second only to worshipping Allah (SWT). The Holy Quran emphasizes this in several verses, calling upon children to speak kindly to their parents, treat them with compassion, and show humility, even as they age. In Surah Al –Isra, Allah (SWT) says: “And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age while with you, say not to them (so much as), ‘uff,’ and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word” (Quran 17:23)
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has also stressed the importance of respecting parents in various hadiths. In one hadith, the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Heaven lies beneath the feet of your mother.” Another hadith emphasizes the rank of parents when a man asked the Prophet, “Who among people is most deserving of my good company?” The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) replied, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet (PBUH), “Your mother.” The man asked once more, “Then who?” The Prophet (PBUH) said “Your mother.” Finally, the man asked, “Then who?” The Prophet (PBUH) replied, “Your father.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim).
Yet incidents of parental disrespect seem to be rising. The erosion of family values, lack of moral upbringing, and the growing influence of modern materialism could be contributing factors. The constant exposure to negative media influences, where disrespect is often normalized, adds to the problem. However, no reason justifies the kind of behaviour witnessed in Nowgam, Srinagar.
Communities, families, and institutions need to reflect deeply on this issue. Schools and religious leaders must emphasize the importance of family respect in their teachings. Parents also play a crucial role in instilling values of kindness, empathy, and patience in their children from an early age. Choosing the right environment for children, whether at home, in schools, or in religious institutions like darasgahs, is essential for shaping a child’s understanding of respect, particularly towards parents. Islamic education and moral guidance from a young age can help instill a deep sense of responsibility and love for parents and elders.
Moreover, law enforcement agencies must continue to treat such cases seriously to set a strong precedent that disrespect, especially of one’s parents, will not be tolerated. However, legislation alone is not the answer: there needs to be a collective effort to revive the moral and ethical teachings that form the backbone of a healthy society.
One of the key ways to instill these values is through education. Islamic teachings offer a complete framework for moral conduct, including the respect of parents. It is essential to incorporate Islamic education into school curriculums from the very beginning, teaching children not only about respecting parents but also guiding them on how to navigate the various challenges in life with ethics and compassion. This early education would lay the foundation for children to grow into respectful and conscientious adults, rooted in strong moral values.
In addition, Imams in all masjids must make it a priority to deliver sermons on the importance of respecting parents. Religious leaders have a profound influence on their congregations, and by consistently addressing this issue, they can help to reinforce the critical nature of family respect without out communities.
In case of the Nowgam incident, justice may be served, but the emotional scars left on the parents will take much longer to heal. It is a reminder to all of us to reflect on our own behaviour towards our elders and ensure that we uphold the sanctity of the parent-child relationship, which is the cornerstone of our society. It is time to remember the profound wisdom in the simple words. “Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.”
Let this incident serve as a wake-up call for us all, before we witness more of these painful and heart breaking situations. As Muslims, let us revisit the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran, which guide us toward respect, kindness, and reverence for our parents-those who are the pillars of our lives. By nurturing these values from the ground up, we can ensure a healthier, more respectful society for future generations.
It is also crucial for parents to take an active role in shaping their children’s moral character. Teaching moral lessons from a young age, choosing schools that promote an Islamic culture, and enrolling children in darasgahs where they can learn the teachings of Islam, are essential steps. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations grow up with a deep-rooted respect for their parents, as well as broader understanding of their role in building a just and respectful society.
(Author is Postal Employee at Department of Posts. Feedback: [email protected])
