New Delhi: The India Islamic Cultural Center (IICC) organized a special program on the eve of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi to highlight the life and message of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Titled “Seerah Lesson for Peace and Tolerance in Society,” the Friday evening event brought together scholars, community leaders, and intellectuals who emphasized the Prophet’s guidance as a source of justice, reconciliation, and mercy in contemporary times.
Addressing the gathering, Salim Engineer, Vice President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, spoke about the universality of Islam’s message and its relevance to modern life. He reminded the audience that Islam’s essence is peace, rooted in surrender to God, and warned against arrogance as the cause of conflict and injustice. He said that justice is the foundation of Islam, quoting the Quran to show that prophets were sent to establish equity. Describing Islam as a comprehensive way of life, he called it a liberation movement freeing people from ideological and social enslavement. He urged Muslims to live as examples of peace and reconciliation, noting that actions carry more weight than words.
Professor Akhtarul Wasey, Adjunct Professor at Jamia Hamdard and Vice President of Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu Hind, described the Prophet as the first teacher of humanity. He stressed that the Prophet’s mission began with ethics and character before rituals like prayer and fasting. He recalled examples of tolerance, such as the Prophet’s forgiveness of his adversaries, and the Charter of Medina, which established coexistence among diverse groups. He said the Prophet’s Farewell Sermon abolished racial and tribal divisions, advancing equality and compassion. These values, he added, are urgently needed in India today.
Islamic scholar Dr. Mirza Shafiq Husain Shafaq highlighted the Prophet’s patience and mercy during battles. He said that out of 82 battles in the Prophet’s life, Muslims only defended themselves, with Khyber as the exception. He noted the Prophet’s forgiveness during the conquest of Mecca, stressing that true strength lies in showing mercy when one holds power.
The evening concluded with reflections on the Seerah as a timeless guide for justice and peace. Former Union Minister Salman Khurshid presided over the program. Convenor Qamar Ahmad and Dr. Hafeezur Rahman managed the proceedings, which also included Naat recitations and Dua. The event emphasized the Prophet’s legacy as a model of compassion and reconciliation for humanity.
