Q. I am a confectioner who works from home and I’ve seen many fellow Muslim bakers advertising for Diwali..I want to know if this is allowed, according to my understanding I’m pretty sure it isn’t..
A. A Muslim is not allowed to celebrate or help and assist in the celebrations of non-Muslims that are symbolic to their beliefs and customs. This includes making a ‘Diwali’ cake that is symbolic to their beliefs and customs and selling it to them.
Allah Ta’ala mentions in the Qur’aan:
“Help each other in righteousness and piety, and do not help each other in sin and aggression. Fear Allah. Surely, Allah is severe at punishment.”(Maaidah 5/2)
As such, it is not permissible for you or your fellow Muslim bakers to make Diwali cakes or sell them.
Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Ismaeel Bassa