New Delhi: The Iran Culture House hosted the second regional symposium on the Imam Khomeini World Award, shedding light on the multifaceted life and lasting impact of Imam Khomeini, the leader of the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran. The symposium featured discussions on various subjects, including interfaith dialogue, social justice, and Imam Khomeini’s views on advancing the status of women in society.
Dr. Iraj Elahi, Iran’s Ambassador to India, emphasized the complexity of discussing Imam Khomeini’s persona, noting his profound influence on both the Iranian people and the broader Islamic world. He described Imam Khomeini as one of the most successful figures in modern history, credited with altering the course of human destiny. Dr. Elahi highlighted Imam Khomeini’s unique contributions to the relationship between politics and religion, ethics and politics, and the revival of religious thought alongside Sufism. He also stressed the importance of the Imam Khomeini International Award in promoting research that honors and advances the Imam’s ideas.
Dr. Fariduddin Farid Asr, Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, explained the objectives of the symposium, outlining the award’s goal to recognize and evaluate scientific and humanitarian contributions related to Imam Khomeini’s life worldwide. He also emphasized the importance of the Qassem Soleimani martyrdom anniversary and reaffirmed Imam Khomeini’s universal teachings against oppression.
The symposium also introduced a ten-volume encyclopaedia of Imam Khomeini, presented by Dr. Mohammad Reza Mahedvi. He highlighted Imam Khomeini’s literary works and their connection to the teachings of the Holy Quran.
Syed Mohammad Askari, in his speech, praised Imam Khomeini as a reformer, revolutionary, philosopher, jurist, and servant leader, whose intellectual revolution transformed Iranian society. He noted that Imam Khomeini’s leadership cannot be compared to other world leaders, as his influence spanned multiple areas of life and was rooted in pure monotheism and devotion to serving God’s people.
Maulana Mohsin Taqvi spoke about the role of prophets in establishing justice and fairness, emphasizing Imam Khomeini’s commitment to supporting oppressed people and nations. He highlighted the Palestinian cause as one close to Imam Khomeini’s heart and stressed the importance of justice against global tyranny, with a particular focus on the Zionist regime.
Professor Azra Abidi, in her paper on the role of women, compared Imam Khomeini’s perspective on the family with Western views, noting that Imam Khomeini regarded the family as a moral and sacred institution, with mothers as the foundation of society. She also emphasized the importance of balancing the complementary roles of men and women to maintain family harmony.
Maulana Mohammad Hossein Lotfi, Head of the Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust from Kargil, introduced the institution and its humanitarian efforts, reflecting Imam Khomeini’s enduring legacy of service to humanity.
This symposium served as a platform to highlight the diverse contributions and enduring teachings of Imam Khomeini, emphasizing his influence on politics, social justice, and women’s rights, as well as his commitment to serving humanity through his leadership and vision.
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