New Delhi: The Department of Islamic Studies at Jamia Hamdard University, in collaboration with the Institute of Study and Research Delhi (ISRD), will host a one-day national history conference titled “Delhi: Crucible of Indo-Islamic Synthesis in Medieval India” on Sunday, April 20, 2025. The conference will be held at the Hamdard Convention Center on the university campus.
The conference aims to explore the profound impact of Islamic heritage on the cultural, societal, and administrative fabric of medieval India, with Delhi at the heart of this vibrant exchange. Research papers will be presented on a variety of sub-themes, including:
The Advent of Islam in North India
Educational Institutions and Knowledge Production
Indo-Islamic Architecture
Sufi Traditions and Sacred Spaces
Language and Literature
Music and Performing Arts
Role in the Freedom Struggle
Calligraphy and Decorative Arts
Culinary Heritage and the Culture of Cuisine
Women’s Contributions
Science and Technology
Mughal Gardens
Economic and Administrative Innovations
Highlighting the rich contribution of Muslims to India’s civilizational growth, Conference Organizer Mohammad Asif Iqbal said that when civilizations interact, they inevitably influence and enrich each other. “Muslims brought with them a treasure of cultural and civilizational practices, and in turn, they embraced the positive traditions of India,” he said. “Islam’s influence on Indian society, culture, and various aspects of life has been profound and lasting. From the beginning, Muslims contributed wholeheartedly to the construction and development of the country.”
Iqbal emphasized that the conference seeks to reaffirm the vital role Muslims have played in shaping India’s identity, especially at a time when historical contributions are often overlooked or misrepresented.
The conference will bring together a distinguished panel of speakers and scholars, including Jamia Hamdard’s Chancellor Mr. Hammad Ahmed, Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Afshar Alam, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind President Syed Sadatullah Husaini, Khusro Foundation Convenor Dr. Hafeezur Rahman, Head of the Department of Islamic Studies Dr. Arshad Hussain, ISRD President Mr. Saleemullah Khan, as well as eminent academics from Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi University, Aligarh Muslim University, Kerala University, and other reputed institutions.
The organizers have extended a special invitation to PhD scholars from the Department of History and others interested in the field to attend the event and engage with the rich discussions.
