Humbly explaining that he has no idea why people tuned into his videos on such a large scale, he explains that in part it might have been because people were also experiencing the same issues.
Humbly explaining that he has no idea why people tuned into his videos on such a large scale, he explains that in part it might have been because people were also experiencing the same issues.
On this week’s TMV Podcast, Salim Kassam and Husam Al-Deen speak to Baba Ali on his Youtube legacy, the field of comedy, and doing good for the Muslim community.
To listen to the full podcast, click below:
As one of the first Muslim Youtubers to gain popularity, Baba Ali started off recording simple videos in his room – explaining that “it was nothing fancy about it, just me sitting in a chair voicing my opinion”.
Covering topics such as culture versus religion, Friday khutbas, and other common issues within the Muslim community, Baba Ali’s natural comedy and intention to discuss topics that meant something to him gained him immense popularity. Humbly explaining that he has no idea why people tuned into his videos on such a large scale, he explains that in part it might have been because people were also experiencing the same issues.
I’m the black sheep of Muslim comedians, my goal is not only laughter, I’m trying to get a message across. It’s not just about laughing, it’s about how we’re laughing.”
Not only engaging with Youtube videos but also with boardgames, matching-making sites (called Half Our Deen), but also with being part of a children’s show, Baba Ali is adamant on the belief that everything done for the ummah must be done with the intention of doing good only – once the money aspect comes into it, he believes it may corrupt some of the original intentions.
If your intention is to do pure good and you mix it with money, it can get confusing at times.”
Explaining that with his business like Half Our Deen, a match-making site, he is constantly aware that he must stay away from charging extra or using volunteers instead of paid workers at events – even if it means his own business suffers a little in the beginning.
“Can we charge more?” Baba Ali asks, “Yes of course we can. But it comes down to how Muslims do business”. Explaining that rizq will always come from Allah when you strive for good, Baba Ali encouraged everyone to pursue their dreams and goals of businesses or entrepreneurship, even if it seems impossible at first. Keeping your intentions pure with the aim of helping the Muslim ummah will ultimately keep you on track and keep you blessed in your endeavors, he explained.
To listen to Baba Ali’s full conversation on his personal stories of marriage, comedy, and business in the world of Youtube and social media, click below:
