Maulana Tariq Jamil (MTJ): Why brands are important?

A certain section of society is criticizing Maulana Tariq Jamil since he launched his clothing brand MTJ. Tariq Jamil has always been a brand, the only difference is that he is selling a different product now. What is a brand and what do we mean by that?

A brand, if simply put, is a set of attributes and qualities in a product that stands for a particular idea that aims to make your life better. Those personalities that propagate ideas or philosophies with a vision to make an impact in a society can be seen as brands in their own right. The one element that makes a brand a brand is its name. A simple noun that becomes a symbol. The name of Maulana Tariq Jamil has acquired the status of a brand as his name has become synonymous with religious preaching.

So, principally there is no harm in becoming a brand yourself. Consequently, MTJ being a brand is not objectionable either. Coming to the clothing brand MTJ, every citizen of Pakistan is free to do business or start a company. So, what are the grounds for criticism against Maulana Tariq Jamil?

For religionists, a scholar busying himself with worldly affairs is unthinkable. On the other hand, people having liberal thoughts consider it a contradiction. Both, the people on the religious right and the people on the liberal left need to discourage the stereotypes (religious and liberal). This compartmentalization is consuming the very essence of our social fabric. This stereotyping is responsible for creating rifts in society that mature into extremes.

One may or may not agree with the point of view of Maulana Tariq Jamil but that does not mean he cannot do what he is legally, morally, and socially allowed to do. The debate can be on the quality of the products MTJ is offering. We can also talk about the marketing strategy of the brand. What we cannot do is criticize him for matters other than commercial. On a commercial note, however, MTJ is going to give a tough time to Junaid Jamshed (J.) and other clothing brands that are positioned on traditional men’s wear.

In a recent interview, Maulana Tariq Jamil has clarified that launching a brand has nothing to do with his personal monetary gains rather he plans to utilize the revenue from MTJ for social work. He also said that criticism was a positive thing, it helped in marketing his brand without spending a single penny. The purpose of every religion is to create a better society. It is unfortunate when ideas become dogmas and dogmas give way to intolerance, hatred, violence, and extremism. Maulana Tariq Jamil (MTJ) is a brand, it is hoped that he will play his role in making this society a better place in whatever capacity he has engaged himself.