There have been a number of movies about Prophet Muhammad, upon whom be peace. From the famous 'The Message' to the more recent animated movies 'Muhammad: the last Prophet'. Given your interest in directing movies that make a difference, how about an educational one for Muslims but also non-Muslims which traces the way in which the message of Islam was revealed by the Prophet focusing on the different revelations and how those revelations were understood by the people e.g. showing how many men revolted when Islam gave women rights, or showing how even women in the streets would go to the Prophet grab him by the hand and ask him questions, or how the verse which is often used to validate men being separate from women was actually revealed to separate Prophet Muhammad from a man who overstayed his welcome at his wedding party? These aspects of faith are not only widely misunderstood by Muslims, but would aid any watcher to get a greater feel of the change that took place in society.
I know, I'm pitching a movie idea in a question. What do you think, something you'd consider?
Answer
It would defiantly be a challenge to do such a movie and I do not believe that I (at the moment) have neither the skills nor the financing to do such a feature. But it is an interesting thought. Mostly though I would like to make a movie, which contains traces of all mayor world religions. For example a movie where Jesus, Muhammad and Abraham all featured as historical figures and later holy prophets.
- So, yes; an idea that I would consider.
Name
Farrukh 2
-
Profession
Question
Having lived in India as well as Denmark, where do you find multiculturalism to have thrived the most?
Answer
If I have to choose between Denmark and India, then I would defiantly say India. Thereby, not saying that narrow-minded thoughts and non-multicultural environment don’t exist in India. I just find that there is a greater mix of ethnicity, religion and culture – making India a more diverse country than Denmark. However, the tow countries are difficult to compare; Denmark has 6 million citizens, whereas India has one billion. Just the mere fact of living one billion people under the roof of one nation does that the people have to live more multi-culturally.
Name
Salema
- Hungary
Profession
Question
What exactly have you done, and in which way? as I am a bit confused?
Answer
I have started a group on Facebook called “Undskyld Muhammed” (“Sorry Muhammed”), which tries to bring in more perspective into the Danish debate about the cartoons of prophet Muhammed. The group works as a free forum of debate but claims one main thesis: - That one can be a 100% for the freedom of speech AND critise the cartoons at the same time. The one does not rule out the other. Danish media has been very keen on depicturing the whole “Muhammed-crisis” (as it is called in Denmark) in a very black/white manner, where you are either for the cartoons or against them. My Facebook group tries to set a new agenda by making the discussions and debates more pluralistic and not so black/white.
Name
Abdel-Hakim Yasin
- Finland
Profession
Question
Hi Anders Botter,
First of all, I am very grateful for your novel approach to represent and give danish youth a face to express their feelings and thoughts. Since you are generation-X (meaning internet generation), How danish youths responded your intiative so far on Facebook and other internet pages/webs discussions?
Regards,
-Yasin
Answer
There have been very many different responses. However the vast majority re supportive and very positive for this initiative. When you state an opinion in the public you must expect to receive reaction from people who like your ideas, and people who do not like your ideas. Therefore, I also have received many hateful e-mails. The irony of it all is that the people who speak most strongly for their own interpretation of freedom of speech also are the very same people who try to threaten me to silence. However, I can happily inform you that every time I receive 1 hateful email, I receive 25 supportive emails. So I am very happy.
Name
Khaled Fateh
- Brazil
Profession
Question
What are the goals of your projects, and is it just a group online (Face Book), or you have further horizons?
Answer
As an average Danish citizen, my primary goals with this Facebook group is to say that “I’m sorry” to all those ordinary Muslims around the world, who have been offended by the cartoons of prophet Muhammed. Secondly (and equally important), it is important for me to create a more plural debate, which is not controlled by the agendas by the media, who often depicts the various opinions very black and white. It is of the utter most importance to Muslims around the world get a chance to see that not all Danish citizens support the publishing of the cartoons, and it is of the utmost importance to Danish citizens get a chance to see that not all Muslims are radicals or member of organisations that are against the freedom of speech and democracy in general. The purposes are many and the group was created from a feeling of that “this is the right thing to do”. The further horizons will hopefully be a continuous debate, which can perhaps influence the media to make a less black/white coverage. Also, we are planning to create a small manifest, which Danish citizens can sign in support of our group. This manifest is not written yet but it will emphasise that one can support freedom of speech, condemn violence and killing AND be against the publishing of the Muhammed drawings.
Name
Remana Kolenary
- Denmark
Profession
Question
I have read that you are a film maker, do you plane to make a film on the Danish cartoons crisis one and two?
Answer
Hopefully, this current situation will not develop into a crisis as the first situation did. I have no plans on doing such a movie. I am more into the complete fictional movie. But I would love to help others to make it, if they have good ideas and can use my input.
Name
Sahar
- Egypt
Profession
Director, www.Zero-net.net
Question
Salaam Anders,
Thank you for your effort, I think both sides need people with open minds and hearts to be able to get over such clashes.
Although I’ve never been to your part of the world, I’ve started a similar initiative to yours two years ago in response to the cartoons crisis, under the slogan "Don't Hate, Educate!" www.zero-net.net We're now award winning and volunteering to introduce our concept to youth in Egypt and Denmark, and around the world. I'd like to know how we can cooperate with you to educate more people on tolerance and cross-cultural understanding and respect. Please accept respect and gratitude from myself and the Zero-net team, wishing you and your team all the best.
Answer
Thank you very much indeed. Very happy for your support.
Name
Hafiz
- Malaysia
Profession
Question
First of all.. May Allah Open Your Heart To Understand Islam Deeply...
My Q is: How brave u to facing anti-Islam extremist who always put u under tension?
Answer
I would say that I am quite brave. Just setting up the group has given various unpleasant reactions. I will not be silenced by threats. However, as a human being I totally despise any form of violence and physical attack and therefore there is a constant awareness of my way of communicating my ideas. I do not wish to put myself in a situation where I cannot use my freedom of speech.
Name
ashraf ali
- India
Profession
student
Question
dear botter,
why you started this group?
Answer
You can read a more elaborate answer in question number 5. Shortly, I can say that I started the group because there was a space of various opinions, which was not filled by the Danish media. Up until now the media has forgotten about the voice of the average Danish citizens and only asked politicians (who are for the Muhammed drawings) or the Danish Imams (who are against the drawings). Denmark needed more diversity in the debate. Therefore, I used my voice (my freedom of speech) to set up the Facebook group.
Name
Hafiz
- Malaysia
Profession
Question
Bismillah...
Where u will also spoken out if u be ban to Danish goverment?
Answer
That question is difficult to answer. Hypothetically: Yes, I would have spoken out my opinions and tried to emphasize the building of bridges instead of the burning of bridges. However, as Denmark is a democracy with full freedom of speech and freedom of press I would not have said “sorry” on behalf of the press or have tried to stop the cartoons. That would be state censorship and that is very wrong.
Name
Arshad
- United Kingdom
Profession
Sultan
Question
Why is it so hard for most westners not to disturb the religious or cultural sensibilities of Muslims (and non-western non-Muslims? Is it because fundamentalism is begining to embed itself in the western society? when Muslims point towards the direction to peace why are thier opinions ignored? Quite frankly some of the theories that western experts and intellectuals come up with for peace are nothing short of laughable childish comedy. What suggestion do you have for them?
Answer
For me this is not a matter of different religions clashing. It is a matter of different cultures. Denmark is a very secular society, where religions do not play a significant role. In my personal point of view the “new religion” of Denmark is “democracy” and “freedom of speech”. When religion takes up a very insignificant role in the society, I think that it can be difficult for many people to understand those for whom religion is very important.
This goes both ways. I am not a scholar or an expert in peace negotiations but if I should give any suggestion or advice, it would be to use a common respect for the values of each culture. Religious groups needs to respect the freedom of speech, as well as the non-religious group needs to respect that which is holy to other. In these days the lines of what is acceptable and the definitions of respect are very blurred. Therefore, I find that there is an (unfortunate) growing fundamentalism and radicalism in all parts of the world; both countries where religions plays a mayor role and countries (like Denmark) where religion plays a very little role.
Therefore, it is very important that ordinary people, religious and non-religious alike state their opinions very loud and clear, so that I may be heard that there are large groups of people, who seeks another way than that of fundamentalism. In Denmark, the religious groups (Muslim and Christian alike) should make more of a point to show that they are not fundamentalists.
Name
Fiza
- United Arab Emirates
Profession
Question
Why did you start such a group? How would you dutch feel if your mother or father or loved one is insulted in public, thats the pain we muslims are suffering from because of your insults. Starting a group in facebook is not enough. If you are feeling guilty go against your government and the press there. Boycott the goods. May be when you Dutch yourselves are doing these they wrongers will realise their mistake. Peace be upon you.
Answer
Firstly, I must point out that I am Danish and not Dutch. Secondly, I am an ordinary citizen and not a politician. I 100% support the freedom of speech – but I also respect the religious views and feelings of other people. By starting the Facebook group I am going against the media and press in my country and hopefully the government (who is representing the people of Denmark) will take notice of my and many others opinions. Boycotting will not solve the problems or create the debate, which is needed to make respect between different cultures.
Name
Hassan
-
Profession
Question
Hello,
I am just wondering if in the danish society ppl are aware of how jews control your country and manipulate your ppl for the benifit of israel.
Answer
I am not aware of such a situation and I can sincerely deny that Jews control our country. Jews are a minority in Denmark – just like the Muslims are a minority (and many other religious groups for that matter). Actually, the Danish government does not have any Jews in the parliament. As already mentioned I am not a politician and I cannot answer on behalf of any governmental institution in Denmark. Also, I can assure you that I personally am not being manipulated for the benefit of Israel or any other country.
Name
Mohab Khaleel
- Belgium
Profession
Question
What is your opinion of what the Danish government did, regarding the plotters? Do you think that deporting them was the right decision?
Answer
Firstly, let me specify that none of the plotters have been deported yet. One of the plotters was a Danish citizen and he walked free the day after his hearing. The two others are in custody, facing their trial. However, you are right that there were plans to deport them straight away, without any trial. This I would not support. Everyone, no matter their alleged crime, should have the right to a fair and just trial.
Name
Salman Faresy
- Bangladesh
Profession
Question
How do you evaluate the reaction of the Danish newspapers? (reprinting the cartoons)
Answer
I think it was a very wrong decision. It was their decision to make as the freedom of speech is fundamental for all Danish newspaper, but I strongly disagree with this decision and was very disappointed. I had hoped for a reaction because the plotting to kill Kurt Westergaard (the cartoonist) was absolutely awful and wrong. But I had hoped for a different kind of reaction, which was more diverse and brought new perspective to the debate. My official opinions is also stated on the Facebook groups main site:
”Sorry Muhammed” acknowledges and strongly supports the fundamental role played by the freedom of speech in a democratic society and the importance of citizens being able to freely express their differences of opinion without fear of reprisals. Consequently, “Sorry Muhammed” strongly condemns any attempt to harm or kill another person due to disagreement over a particular action or conviction.
At the same time, “Sorry Muhammed” critically questions the necessity of printing a picture of the prophet Muhammed, with a bomb in his turban. This picture has previously proved highly inflammatory in large parts of the Muslim world and can too easily be construed as denigrating and demeaning towards Muslims.
”Sorry Muhammed” asks, what was the purpose of choosing to print, once more, such a provocative picture of the prophet? This is an action that can have great ramifications for Denmark’s reputation, her trade interests as well as Danes living and working abroad.
Was it necessary to reprint these pictures? Do they not have a more divisive effect, rather than creating the conditions for dialogue?
Name
fatima wared
- Austria
Profession
Question
Why did you react to the second crisis not the first? If you did any thing in response to the first, what was your reaction?
Answer
My initial response to the Muhammed drawings, when they were published for the first time in 2005, was a very personal one. I have friends spread out all over the world. Many of these friends are Muslims, Hindu, Christians etc. I wrote to them and gave them a personal explanation for the crisis and told them that I was sorry that Muhammed had been offended in such a primitive and naïve way. The second time the cartoons were published, I felt the urge to react in public and state my personal opinion loudly.
Name
F.K
- Poland
Profession
Question
You are not representing any political party, but which one are you affiliated theatrically to?
Answer
That is an extremely difficult question as I find it hard for one single political party to represent my points of view. For me this whole debate is non-political but based upon a difference of cultures. Hence, I vote for very different parties at every selection. For me there is no right- of left-wing, but a circle of opinions – like an animal biting its own tail. The most extreme right-wing often have a lot in common with the most extreme left-wing. I am on neither side of these but always value those who respect diversity.
Name
Monira
- Chad
Profession
Question
Have you done any activity during the Danish parliamentary elections? And what is your opinion on Asmaa Abdulhameed and Naser Khedr?
Answer
I have not been active in the Danish elections. I support both Asmaa Abdulhameed and Naser Khaders right to be involved in Danish politics as the people of Denmark has voted for them. Also, it is positive that we do have diversity in our government. However, I do not support their political views in any way.
Name
Mohamed
- Ethiopia
Profession
Student
Question
Greeting
Under the freedom of expression they insulted our beloved prophet, and most of the time they give the excuse to initiate inter-dialogue. You became an icon, and as for me I remember you whenever I read related news which hurts and wish I could ignore all because of you. I believe you are a typical examole of how to initiate dialogue without insulting. What I would like to know is , in your view how do you think think Muslims worldwide should react?
Answer
I believe that it is very very important that moderate Muslims worldwide make it very clear that there is a big difference between fundamental and radical Muslims and the average citizens. One of the main problems of the debate about the Muhammed drawings in Denmark, is that the discussion is very black/white and uses terminology as “us” and “them” (“them” being all Muslims). I believe that it is important to show that religion can be peaceful.
Name
Mohamed
- Ethiopia
Profession
Student
Question
I have read somekind of accusaton against you due to your initiation. Have you personally come across any tangible threat so far? Do you think that they may create obstacles?
Thank you
Answer
I have not received any tangible threats yet. If I should receive one it would not be an obstacle to the group, the free debate or my opinions, but perhaps a personal obstacle for me (causing insecurity in my everyday life).
Name
S. A
- Egypt
Profession
Question
Have you done this project according to your believe in the freedom of expression, or your believe in the sacredness of Islam?
Answer
I have made this project because of my respect for different cultures and the acknowledgement that differences between people can be a positive thing, where “both sides” can learn from each other’s experiences instead of fighting for their individual interpretation of what is “right” and what is “wrong”. Furthermore I am a firm believer in the freedom of speech and see it as a fundamental value in any modern society. I believe in and respect the sacredness of not only Islam but all religions. I myself do not believe in any kind of God and I am not fond of all the problems that religion can create, but that does not mean that I cannot understand and comprehend those who find security, relief and meaning in religion.
Name
abu ismail
- Syria
Profession
artist
Question
Salaam, Anders.
Just a quick note to acknowledge and to show our family's appreciation towards your effort, may you stand firm against those who threaten you.
"Whoever Allah guides there is none that can misguide him."
Answer
Salaam ’elekum to you and your family. Thank you for your kind support.
Name
Editor - Radwa
-
Profession
Question
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Answer
This session has come to an end.
We would like to thank Anders Bøtter for speaking to IslamOnline.net viewers today, and we also thank all those who participated in this dialogue.
We apologize for not being able to accommodate any further questions. We request our readers to join us in the upcoming sessions.
