Can a Woman Perform a ‘Mujra’ or Any Other Dance in Front of Her Brother?

Answered by Ustadh Salman Younas

Question: Can a girl perform a ‘mujra’ or any other dance in front of her own brother without music?

Answer: assalamu `alaykum

Dancing in front of someone of non-marriageable kin (mahram) would be permitted if: (a) it is done with one’s nakedness covered (b) in a manner that does not lead to fear of sexual arousal, and (c) not distinguishably of the type primarily associated with the corrupt and immoral.

Regarding the Mujra, it has negative connotations among people today with its association with prostitutes and its origin is also not something that can be religiously sanctioned. Therefore, it should be avoided. Other forms of dance that fulfill the three conditions mentioned above would be permitted.

Salman

Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani