New Delhi: The Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) Delhi hosted the 8th “Imam Maududi Memorial Lecture” at the Auditorium Hall of Indian Institute of Islamic Studies and Research here Sunday. The event, themed “The Contemporary Relevance of Maududi’s Thought,” explored the enduring significance of Maulana Maududi’s ideas in addressing present-day challenges faced by Muslims.
Dr. Salim Khan, a renowned author, scientist, and member of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind’s Central Advisory Council, delivered the keynote lecture. He discussed Maulana Maududi’s vision, emphasising its relevance in today’s context. Reflecting on historical events, Dr. Salim highlighted Maududi’s prescient warnings. He cited a letter Maulana Maududi wrote on December 25, 1947, forewarning the leadership in Hyderabad about potential repercussions if they clashed with the Indian government. Ignoring this advice, Hyderabad witnessed the Indian army’s intervention in September 1948, which resulted in significant loss of life, estimated between 300,000 and 500,000. Dr. Salim stressed that Maulana had urged reconciliation over confrontation, which could have altered the tragic course of history.
Dr. Salim also shed light on Maulana Maududi’s observations during his speech in Madras, where he analysed the foundations of Hindu nationalism. According to Maududi, the movement was built on two pillars: the struggle for freedom from British rule and hostility towards Muslims. Maulana predicted the eventual downfall of Hindu nationalism due to its inherent contradictions, urging Muslims to maintain patience and perseverance.
Drawing parallels to global challenges, Dr. Salim referenced examples from Iran, America, Israel, and other Muslim-majority nations, illustrating the timeless relevance of Maulana Maududi’s political and intellectual insights.
In his presidential address, Dr. Hassan Raza, Chairman of Islami Academy Trust and member of JIH Central Advisory Council, commended Maulana Maududi’s efforts in transforming Islam into a dynamic movement, highlighting his contributions to education, economics, politics, and secularism. Dr. Raza urged Maududi’s followers to apply his ideas practically to address contemporary issues.
The event commenced with an inaugural address by Ramees EK, National President of SIO India, and a welcome speech by Imrul Quesh, State President of SIO Delhi. Salimullah Khan, Ameer-e-Halqa of JIH Delhi, also graced the programme, which was attended by hundreds of students, academics, and members of the general public.
