Renowned actor and activist Hamza Ali Abbasi recently launched his book, My Discovery of God, Islam, and Judgment Day, in Toronto, an event that saw a deeper exploration of his spiritual transformation and beliefs. During the launch, Abbasi touched on various philosophical and religious themes, offering insight into his personal journey toward discovering faith and the meaning of life.
A Shift from the Spotlight to Spirituality
Once a prominent figure in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, Hamza Ali Abbasi has often been in the news for his powerful performances in television dramas and films. Over time, however, Abbasi made the conscious decision to move away from the spotlight, choosing to focus on religion, spirituality, and advocating for a more faith-based lifestyle. His decision to withdraw from mainstream media was a reflection of his desire to explore a deeper connection with Islam, one that he felt had been missing in his life. This shift is central to the themes presented in his book.
In his speech at the book launch, Abbasi explained that he now finds peace in discussing matters of faith rather than engaging in the politics of entertainment or other worldly concerns. He emphasized that he plans to focus on principles, particularly when discussing politics and social issues. His perspective is no longer rooted in fleeting, temporal issues but rather in the broader, eternal concerns of faith and spirituality.
The Premise of the Book: A Personal and Spiritual Discovery
My Discovery of God, Islam, and Judgment Day is more than just an autobiography; it’s a testimony to Abbasi’s evolving understanding of life’s most pressing questions. The book delves into his search for God, a journey that began long before he stepped away from acting. Abbasi spoke about how he found himself questioning the purpose of life, the existence of God, and what happens after death. These thoughts prompted him to embark on a personal mission to learn about Islam and to find answers to these existential questions.
At the launch event, he reiterated how, for years, he grappled with these themes but found clarity and comfort in Islamic teachings, which eventually led him to write this book. According to Abbasi, the world is a merciless place, where people are easily forgotten after they pass away. He highlighted the importance of worrying less about worldly accolades and more about one’s relationship with God and preparation for the afterlife. For Abbasi, the hereafter is where the ultimate justice lies, and this belief has been instrumental in shaping his approach to life and religion.
Politics of Principles, Not Incidents
One of the standout moments from Abbasi’s address at the book launch was his assertion that he now prefers to engage in discussions based on principles, not events. This statement speaks volumes about his transformation—both as a public figure and as an individual. In a world where politics is often driven by fleeting incidents and controversies, Abbasi has chosen a different path. He aims to contribute to discussions where the focus is on long-lasting, unchanging values rather than on temporary matters.
His comment underscores the fact that he wants to rise above the divisive nature of contemporary political discourse. For Abbasi, the guiding principles of justice, morality, and faith serve as the foundation for any meaningful discussion. While he remains engaged with societal issues, his focus is on advocating for these higher values, particularly through the lens of his religious faith.
Life Beyond the Limelight
Abbasi’s withdrawal from acting in 2019 was a decision that took many by surprise, but for him, it was a natural progression after the internal struggles he faced while trying to balance fame with faith. At the book launch, Abbasi reflected on how the entertainment industry often glorifies material success and worldly achievements, both of which he now sees as fleeting and unimportant compared to the eternal and spiritual aspects of life.
His reflections resonate with those seeking a more meaningful existence, one that goes beyond wealth and fame. Abbasi stressed that he no longer seeks validation from the world but instead strives for inner peace and fulfillment, which he has found through his faith.
A Call for Reflection
Abbasi’s message at the book launch was clear: we must all take time to reflect on our own lives, our relationship with God, and what truly matters. He urged the audience to think beyond their daily concerns and look toward the hereafter, emphasizing the significance of preparing for Judgment Day. For Abbasi, this preparation is not just about following religious rituals but understanding and internalizing the core values of faith.
New Chapter in Abbasi’s Journey
The book launch of My Discovery of God, Islam, and Judgment Day marked a new chapter in Hamza Ali Abbasi’s public life. No longer the actor and political commentator many knew him to be, Abbasi now positions himself as a proponent of spiritual reflection and moral discourse. His book, filled with personal revelations and profound insights, is a testament to the transformation of a man who has found purpose beyond the fleeting fame of the entertainment world.
Through his writings and public engagements, Abbasi hopes to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of faith and self-discovery, urging people to focus on the eternal rather than the temporary.