Vlogger Rajab Butt faces backlash for lavish money display at niece’s Aqiqa

YouTuber Rajab Butt has once again stirred controversy after video of his niece Aayat Zehra’s Aqiqa ceremony went viral, showing a money shower and musical performance at an otherwise modest religious event.

Rajab Butt is no stranger to controversy but his fanbase remains large, and his family vlogs continue to attract millions of views.

The Aqiqa, an important Islamic ritual performed to celebrate the birth of a child, became the centre of public criticism after Rajab and his family were seen showering large sums of currency on the newborn in front of guests.

The YouTuber, who commands a massive following of 6.75 million on YouTube and over 2 million on Instagram, hosted an extravagant event that included a performance by singer Tahseen Sakina.

Among the attendees was controversial TikToker Nadeem Naniwala, along with other members of Rajab’s close-knit and frequently featured family circle.

In the video, Rajab is seen singing with Sakina and expressing affection for his niece while money rains down in the background. 

His fans praised the family’s joy while many netizens condemned the ostentatious display.

“This is showoff. It seems they are giving birth to children just for content,” commented one social media user.

Another added, “In older times, people tossed money on prostitutes. Now it’s become a habit of the common man.”

Other reactions were equally scathing, with one user writing, “If they truly love their child, they should donate the money to the poor.” Another added, “This isn’t hard-earned money; that’s why they’re tossing it like that.”

Critics also targeted the loud music played near the infant, with users pointing out potential harm to the baby’s well-being and calling it inappropriate for a religious gathering.

“It is mentioned in Hadith to keep our celebrations simple and humble, not turn them into concerts,” one noted.

However, this latest incident has reignited debates about content creators using personal milestones for clout and publicity at the cost of religious values and public sensibilities.