Santa Claus is ‘fictional character’ – Russia’s top Muslim cleric

The jolly winter gift-bringer is akin to a cartoon hero, the mufti of Moscow has said

Ded Moroz, Russia’s equivalent of Santa Claus, is nothing more than a fictional character, a senior Muslim cleric has said ahead of New Year’s celebrations, urging believers to direct their attention to God instead.

Ildar Alyautdinov, the mufti of Moscow and deputy chairman of the Council of Scholars of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia (DUM), made his comments about Ded Moroz (Father Frost) during an interview with news agency RIA Novosti on Wednesday.

“Ded Moroz and his granddaughter Snegurochka are fictional characters, which is why devout Muslims associate them with cartoon heroes, nothing more. They don’t have magical powers,” Alyautdinov said.

“You should pray for peace, wellbeing, and good health for yourselves and your loved ones. Your wishes and requests should be directed to God,” he added.

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According to the Russian tradition, Ded Moroz brings presents not on Christmas, but on New Year’s Eve. Orthodox Christians, who make up more than 70% of Russia’s population, celebrate Christmas on January 7. Around 10% of Russians are Muslims.

Muslim clerics sparked outrage earlier this month when the Council of Scholars issued a fatwa outlining conditions under which men are allowed to have up to four wives. The fatwa was rescinded following criticism from prominent politicians and rights groups who noted that polygamy is not recognized by Russian law.