Q: A child has been adopted by a South African Indian family. By what title may he address his adoptive father, mother and grandparents. Is it permissible to teach the child to say abba, ummi, dada, dadi, nana and nani? At what age is it appropriate to inform the child that he is adopted or should we adopt silence in this situation?
A: He should rather address them as uncle, etc. to avoid any confusion and complication.
As soon as he has some understanding like at the age of 2 or 3.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)