Syed Ubaidur Rahman, a New Delhi-based author and historian, has sparked discussions with his latest book, Peaceful Expansion of Islam in India. Known for works like Forgotten Muslim Empires of South India and Biographical Encyclopaedia of Indian Muslim Freedom Fighters, Rahman presents a fresh perspective on Islam’s spread in India. In this interview, he discusses his research, the role of traders and Sufis, and the misconceptions surrounding forced conversions.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
Q: What motivated you to write this book?
A: This idea was long in the making. I felt the narrative of Islam spreading in India through forced conversions needed to be debunked with scholarly evidence. Alhamdulillah, I was fortunate to address this important theme and, I hope, do it justice.
The Early Arrival of Islam
Q: What surprised you most during your research?
A: The narrative that Islam came through force, particularly via northern invasions, is unfounded. Historians like Eton and T.W. Arnold have shown that Islam spread predominantly through peaceful means. For example, in Malabar, local rulers even encouraged families to convert certain members to Islam, highlighting its organic spread.
Role of Arab Merchants
Q: How did Arab merchants contribute to the spread of Islam in India?
A: Muslim traders played a pivotal role, particularly along the western and eastern coasts. Long before the arrival of Sufis, merchants established relations with local communities in Kerala, Gujarat, Konkan, and Bengal. By the 8th century, thriving Muslim communities existed in these regions, reflecting Islam’s peaceful integration into Indian society.
Sufism’s Influence
Q: What role did Sufis play in spreading Islam?
A: Sufis profoundly impacted Indian society, not by proselytizing but through their asceticism, charisma, and non-discriminatory conduct. They attracted people of all faiths, fostering conversions through their spiritual influence. Even after their death, their shrines became enduring centers of interfaith interaction and devotion.
Peaceful Coexistence and Conversions
Q: Can you share examples of Islam’s peaceful spread in India?
A: The influence of Sufis like Shaikh Hujwiri in Lahore and Hazrat Nathar Shah Wali in Tamil Nadu is well-documented. These saints inspired people through their simple, spiritual lives, leading to conversions across diverse regions without coercion.
Economic and Social Factors
Q: How did socio-economic dynamics encourage conversion to Islam?
A: Muslim traders were indispensable to several kingdoms like the Zamorin of Malabar and the Kadamba Kings of Goa. These rulers provided state protection and religious freedom to Muslims, creating a conducive environment for Islam to flourish.
Challenging Misconceptions
Q: How does your book address the myth of forced conversions?
A: This misconception stems partly from overzealous chroniclers. Historical evidence shows that Islam spread primarily through peaceful means, with traders and Sufis influencing people over centuries.
Reception and Impact
Q: How has your book been received so far?
A: The response has been decent but not overwhelming. It’s still early days since the book’s release, and I am hopeful it will gain more attention, inshaAllah.
Message for Readers
Q: What do you hope readers will take away from your book?
A: I aim to provide a clearer understanding of Islam’s history in India, grounded in evidence rather than myths. My hope is that readers see the peaceful and multifaceted ways in which Islam integrated into Indian society.
For more information, Syed Ubaidur Rahman can be contacted at 9818327757 or via email at [email protected].
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