A 60-year-old man from Rawalpindi has married a younger woman in a Nikah ceremony, sparking widespread debate on social media—and he is pushing back against critics with a firm defence of his marriage.
Hakeem Babar, who married despite a substantial age difference, remarked in a video message that “age is just a number” and insisted that he has done nothing wrong.
‘Age Is Just a Number’
He stated that those criticizing him are often involved in casual, non-serious relationships themselves, yet they shy away from Nikah (Islamic marriage).
His young wife also supported her husband’s stance, asserting that when love is genuine, age should not be an issue; furthermore, once a suitable partner is found, marriage should not be delayed.
The couple has also announced plans to perform Umrah after Eid-ul-Fitr, followed by a trip to the Netherlands.
Mixed Reactions Online
Diverse opinions regarding this marriage have emerged on social media. Some users have expressed concern over the significant age gap, while others defend the union—viewing the Nikah as a legitimate, moral alternative to illicit relationships.
The wedding, which took place in Chaklala Scheme III, has stirred a commotion on social media. As news of the Nikah broke, discussions erupted across various platforms, with users expressing a wide range of reactions—from surprise and criticism to support for the union.
An ‘Arranged’ and ‘Love’ Marriage
In a viral video clip, Hakeem Babar explained that their marriage is both an “arranged” and a “love” marriage; they first developed feelings for one another, and subsequently, the relationship was formalized through a Nikah, giving it both legal and religious standing.
He states that age is of no consequence; what truly matters is the youthfulness of the heart.
“My wife was a divorcee; this is in accordance with the command of Allah and the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), and I have simply followed that. I have committed no sin nor any illicit act—so why are people making negative comments?”
— Hakeem Babar, in a viral video messageWhat We Know
Plans After the Wedding
Beyond the ceremony itself, the couple has shared their intentions to perform Umrah after Eid-ul-Fitr, followed by a trip to the Netherlands.
For Hakeem Babar, the marriage is not simply a personal matter but one grounded in religious practice. He maintains that his Nikah has given the relationship both legal and religious standing, and that he has followed the command of Allah and the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH).
His wife’s support has reinforced his position: she asserts that genuine love renders age irrelevant, and that once a suitable partner is found, marriage should not be delayed.
Why it matters: The case has renewed public discussion about age-gap marriages, the religious legitimacy of Nikah, and how society views relationships that differ from convention.
Note: This article is based on reports and a viral video statement attributed to Hakeem Babar. Details about the couple’s personal lives have not been independently verified beyond public statements. Please respect the privacy of the individuals involved.
