Playing Musical Instruments in Front of a Mosque

Question

When, in front of mosques — whether it is the time of the congregational prayer (jama‘a) or the jama‘a is actually in progress — people play musical instruments, the large drum, the kettledrum, the “English” band, the shehnai (an Indian oboe-like wind instrument) and the like, is this a violation of the sanctity of the mosque or not? And should those playing be stopped or not, when they are going along a public road (shari‘ ‘amm) playing?

Answer

Every person has the right to pass along the public highway; however, doing something that causes distress (idha’) to those around or to the people of the mosque, especially at the times of prayer, is prohibited. If they are admonished with tact, or it is conveyed to them through some influential person, that is better.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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