Hyderabad, Oct. 11 -- Can water conservation, food wastage and the use of plastic carry bags become the subject of a Friday sermon? At first glance, these may appear to be unusual themes for a religious discourse. Yet, at Masjid-e-Teenposh in Red Hills, these pressing social and environmental concerns formed the centerpiece of the "Juma khutba" delivered by Moulana Obaidur Rahman Athar.

The congregation was in for a surprise when the khateeb chose to move beyond conventional religious topics and address issues that have a direct bearing on everyday life. Known for his keen interest in matters affecting society, Moulana Rahman used the occasion to remind worshippers that religious responsibility extends beyond personal worship to include ...