KARACHI | June 2, 2026 – Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram, along with Misbah-ul-Haq, Fakhr-e-Alam, Saeed Anwar, and several other notable personalities, recently addressed the criticism surrounding their Hajj journey, which gained significant attention on social media this year.
The group, which performed Hajj under an official VIP arrangement facilitated by ARY Sports, became the subject of online debate after several videos from their pilgrimage went viral. Among the most discussed clips were Wasim Akram’s lighthearted “swing-style” take on the Rami al-Jamarat ritual and another video showing him carrying bananas for Misbah-ul-Haq. Fakhr-e-Alam also frequently shared moments from the journey, posting photos and videos featuring fellow pilgrims and celebrities, including Bilal Abbas Khan and Tabish Hashmi.
As the content circulated online, some social media users criticized the group, describing the pilgrimage as more of a “picnic” than a spiritual journey. Responding to the backlash, the former cricketers and television host clarified several misconceptions.
Addressing concerns over not shaving their heads after Hajj, they explained that they had consulted religious scholars before embarking on the pilgrimage. According to them, they were advised that pilgrims could either shave their heads completely or perform Qasr by trimming a portion of their hair. The group opted for the latter.
They also rejected claims that sharing cheerful moments with friends diminished the sanctity of Hajj. “Hajj is an act of worship, but we also have time to interact, pray, reflect, and spend moments with companions,” they said, adding that smiling and enjoying the company of fellow pilgrims does not contradict the spirit of the pilgrimage.
The group emphasized that many of the videos were created to inspire younger generations and provide insight into the Hajj experience for those considering the journey in the future.
Speaking from Madinah Munawwarah, Fakhr-e-Alam revealed that one of the most common questions they received was what motivated them to perform Hajj. Wasim Akram shared that the decision came naturally rather than through extensive planning.
“I always felt I would go when I was truly ready,” Akram said. “When I learned that my friends were going, I decided to join them. As I approach 60, it felt like the right time. The journey was challenging but rewarding.”
Misbah-ul-Haq described the pilgrimage as a deeply fulfilling experience, saying the opportunity to undertake such a significant spiritual journey alongside close friends made it even more meaningful and memorable.
