DESPITE notices displayed prominently in all mosques requesting the faithful to switch off their mobile phones, the ringtones during congregational prayers have become a nuisance.

As soon as prayers start, mobile phones start ringing incessantly with a variety of ringtones, including Bollywood tunes. This distracts the attention of the Imam and followers, thus compromising the spirit and devotion with which the prayers are being offered.

Since one is likely to forget (to switch off the mobile phone before entering a mosque), I have permanently selected ‘silent’ and ‘vibrate’ on my phone and have never had to face the embarrassment of disturbing the congregation with a ringtone. When the phone is in my trouser or shirt pocket, I am alerted by its vibration and never miss a call.

I request all regular mosque-goers to do the same and experience peace and tranquillity during prayers.

Asif Jah

Karachi