A moment that will probably remain in my memory for a long time from this year's edition of "Big Brother VIP Albania" has sparked debate online - and rightly so.
Gjesti, in a scene that shocked viewers, took Jozi's crucifix pendant and threw it into the pool, while saying: "Allahu Akbar". For Jozi, a Catholic believer, this pendant is not an accessory that can be thrown into the water without harm. It is a symbol of his faith – and Gjesti's action was nothing less than an unacceptable desecration. That was enough for the network to explode in harsh criticism and the residents to engage in an even more heated debate.
But the situation took another turn, when Laertes said: “Why did you say Allahu Akbar? Do you know who says it? Those who cut off heads! What are you, a terrorist here?” Thus, an expression that for millions of people is a form of worship to God, was equated with violence and terror. And yes, here the debate went from religious insult to classic stereotypes that feed on ignorance.
So, we witnessed two extremes: on the one hand, a resident who thinks that “Allahu Akbar” is the soundtrack to throwing a sacred symbol into the water, and on the other, another who, when he hears this expression, automatically thinks of news about terrorists. The clash between ignorance, insults, and the self-confidence to speak without knowledge is shocking.
And if anyone still has doubts: yes, both were wrong. Absolutely. Gestis's action was not a "moment of play", but a conscious act of desecration. While Laertes' comments were an example of the spread of stereotypes, linking a religious expression with extremism and violence. As a reminder: "Allahu Akbar" means "God is great". It is not a war slogan. That some have misused it does not in itself make the phrase bad - just as the fact that it has been misused throughout history does not make the cross a symbol of violence (remember Hitler and the swastika).
But, if these scenes generate clicks, some superficial discussion on prime time and continue to be tolerated as "just a game" or "for a little pulse", then perhaps the problem is not only in the Big Brother house. The problem lies beyond that wall of cameras. The problem is outside, with the audience that applauds and justifies. With the production that decides not to address it seriously. With us, who chew it as normality.
Because when the desecration of a faith and the spread of religious stereotypes are sold as content , then we are no longer talking about a reality show. We are talking about our reality. And this reality, unfortunately, has no premiums to save it.
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