Mumbai Mosques Embrace Technology with 'Azan App' Amid Loudspeaker Restrictions

In a bid to adapt to restrictions on loudspeaker use, several mosques in Mumbai have embraced the Online Azan app, allowing worshippers to receive the call to prayer directly on their mobile devices. This innovative solution ensures that even during public announcement limitations, the faithful can stay connected to their local mosques. The app, developed by a Tamil Nadu-based company, has already seen significant uptake, with hundreds of residents registering in just a few days. As mosques shift towards this technology, community leaders express support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of prayer without causing disturbances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 13:28 IST

Innovative Solution for Call to Prayer

Mumbai: In response to restrictions on loudspeaker usage, several mosques in Mumbai have turned to a specialized mobile application that broadcasts the 'azan', or call to prayer, directly to worshippers in real-time.

The application, named Online Azan, was created by a company based in Tamil Nadu.

Due to the limitations and sensitivities regarding loudspeakers for the call to prayer, this app allows worshippers to receive the azan directly from their local mosques, as explained by Fahad Khalil Pathan, managing trustee of Mahim Juma Masjid.

This free app enables users to listen to the azan from home, particularly during Ramzan (the Islamic month of fasting) and other periods when public announcements are restricted.

Pathan noted, "This initiative followed a police crackdown on loudspeaker usage, where officers warned that continued use could lead to action, prompting the mosque to temporarily disable its sound system."

To maintain an uninterrupted spiritual experience, especially for the elderly and nearby residents, the Juma Masjid in Mahim has adopted this app.

Developed with the assistance of IT professionals from Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, the app is now available for both Android and iPhone users.

The app streams the azan live through mobile devices, ensuring that worshippers who cannot hear it due to sound restrictions can still receive it in real-time.

Additionally, the app serves a broader community function by notifying users of prayer times and can operate like a smartwatch alert system. Once installed and set up, it runs automatically.

Worshippers have expressed their appreciation for this initiative, stating that even when loudspeakers are inactive, they can remain connected to their local mosque's azan via their mobile devices.

Pathan mentioned that the smaller box speakers used in mosques do not project the azan as widely as traditional loudspeakers, making it challenging for many accustomed to hearing the call to prayer.

In light of this, the Online Azan app has proven to be a valuable resource.

"We opted for innovation rather than confrontation. Now, the faithful can stay informed about azan timings regardless of loudspeaker usage. In just three days, 500 residents near our mosque have registered on the app, and a total of six mosques in Mumbai are now connected to the app's server located in India," he added.

Users can easily download the app, select their locality, and choose the nearest mosque to receive live notifications whenever the azan is called.

Pathan clarified, "The Bombay High Court has not mandated the removal of loudspeakers but has established permissible sound limits—55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night. In response to police requests, we have voluntarily ceased loudspeaker use and switched to box speakers to comply with these guidelines."

Mohammed Ali, co-founder of Online Azan, shared that the company, which is three years old, has registered 250 mosques in Tamil Nadu.

The company requires an application form, proof of the mosque's address, and the Aadhaar card of the individual responsible for the call to prayer.

Mumbai Congress general secretary Asif Farooqui praised the mosques' adoption of this new technology.

"Loudspeakers were merely a means to convey messages broadly. We must ensure there is no disturbance to others. Prayer is essential, not the loudspeaker. It's encouraging to see mosques embracing new innovations to communicate the call to prayer," he remarked.

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has been leading a campaign against loudspeakers in Mumbai mosques.

He claims that his efforts have resulted in the removal of 1,500 loudspeakers in the city, which were allegedly used without proper authorization.