Meet Countries Which Forbade Valentine’s Day

Islamic activists and Hindus forbid young people to go out on their own and those found at romantic spots on Valentine’s could be beaten.

Stores full of heart-shaped gifts and red roses are a usual occurrence on Valentine’s Day across the world. But in Saudi Arabia, florists hide roses in fear from police and the strict Islamic laws.

Members of Muttawa, the Islamic police, are trying to convince citizens that Valentine’s Day is in effect a pagan holiday that is not good for an Islamic country.

One florist commented that the Muttawa are trying to destroy Valentine’s Day every year.

Young men and women forbidden to sit together at restaurants

The strict Islamic laws do not allow romantic relationships unless the couple is married. Marriages are mostly arranged by the families. What is usual in western countries is forbidden in Saudi Arabia. For example, restaurants are separated into two sections, one for young men and the other for young women, but only if the young women come with their families. Nevertheless, the florist says that the sale of roses on Valentine’s Day is good despite the laws.

A similar situation is in India. The Hindus say that Velentine’s Day is in contrast to Indian culture.

The Hindus will web couples forcefully

They also said that they would immediately marry every couple they see together in a restaurant, park or any romantic location. If they refuse, the young woman will have to tie a rakhi to the neck of the young man, which is a symbol that says they are brother and sister. Also, couples found at a romantic location by Hindu activists have a strong chance of being beaten up.

But this year, student groups and lawyers offering legal assistance will keep an eye on couples in love.

Sudan calls the young to boycott Valentine’s Day

Muslim extremists in Pakistan are against Valentine’s Day, just like the Hindus in India. But nevertheless, the occasional heart-shaped gift, stuffed animals with love messages and flowers can still be found in shops.

In Sudan, Muslim priests called on the young to boycott Valentine’s Day, stressing that it was a holiday of western countries. They said that they should save the money they would spend on that day and spend it on their wedding. Despite that, valentine’s Day is becoming increasingly popular among young people who buy love cards and flowers.

Although Iran is also a Muslim country, shop owners decorate their stores with red balloons and hearts, while an occasional couple holding hands can be seen in Tehran.

Gaza sends flowers to Europe

In Gaza, most people do not celebrate Valentine’s Day, but you can find symbolic gifts in shops there. Also, florists have their work cut out for them because Israel has temporarily lightened its blockade. Palestinian florists can export their flowers to Europe for Valentine’s Day.