Syed Iftekhar Jamal Honored with Urdu Academy Award -

ABU DHABI:The recent inauguration of the BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights an interesting irony. This grand temple stands in the Muslim-majority UAE, where secularization is on the rise. This event comes shortly after the inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir in India. While Modi’s government in India blurs the lines between the state and Hindu faith and undermines minority rights, the UAE moves in the opposite direction. The UAE’s secularization, influencing Saudi Arabia as well, is a significant development in the Islamic world. This shift challenges India’s secular values. The UAE has attracted people of various religions and backgrounds to live and work there. Despite Islam being the official religion, the government allows diverse religious practices. Non-Muslims, forming a quarter of the population, have space to worship freely, with many churches, a synagogue, and a gurdwara present. Hindu gatherings and celebrations are also welcomed. The UAE’s tolerance extends beyond religion. Alcohol and pork are available, and Ramadan fasting rules are relaxed. Women have freedom in dress, and discrimination based on religion is rare. These progressive attitudes influence neighboring Saudi Arabia, where Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is spearheading modernization efforts by reducing Islamic influence and cutting support for radical groups worldwide. This trend towards secularization in the UAE and potentially Saudi Arabia marks a significant shift in the Islamic world. For India, reduced Saudi funding for conservative mosques could lead to a return to moderate religious guidance for Indian Muslims. The UAE’s example challenges the Hindu nationalist dream of a Hindu majoritarian state, often compared to Saudi Arabia’s treatment of non-Muslims. Modi, at the temple inauguration, praised the UAE’s diversity, contrasting India’s fading secularism. As Hindu residents in UAE face this contrast, it prompts reflection on India’s trajectory. The writer, a private equity investor, emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and secular values in both countries.

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Renowned Urdu poet and writer Syed Iftekhar Jamal from Kadapa has been named the recipient of the prestigious ‘Yousuf Safi Lifetime Achievement Award’ by the Urdu Academy of Andhra Pradesh. The award recognizes his outstanding contributions to Urdu literature, drama, and activism.

Writing poetry since 1987, Mr. Jamal has had his works featured in prominent Urdu publications such as Saalar, Siyasat, Etemaad, and Dabistan. He has also organized several notable Mushairas (poets’ gatherings), including the first state-level Riyasati Urdu Mushaira post-bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.

Mr. Jamal’s first drama, written in 1995, was adapted into Andhra Pradesh’s first Urdu telefilm the following year. His notable works include Mohabbat Aur Jung (1997), Lagan (2002), and Koun Banega Ghar Jamaai (2003). As a director, his plays like Khwab Pather Mein, Padam Shiri, and Dafeena received acclaim across Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Kadapa.

In addition to his literary accomplishments, Mr. Jamal serves as the State Secretary of the Minority Hakkula Parirakshana Samiti, Andhra Pradesh, advocating for minority rights.

Syed Iftekhar Jamal Honored with Urdu Academy Award

AUTHOR: Islamic Voice

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