9 April 2024
In his latest work, “Being Muslim in Hindu India,” Ziya Us Salam, a veteran journalist and author, delves deep into the challenges faced by India’s Muslim community under the shadow of Hindutva politics. This book marks Salam’s eighth publication focusing on Islam and the lives of Indian Muslims, with a particular emphasis on the grim realities they encounter in today’s India.
Salam’s narrative vividly captures the metamorphosis of India into a nation where the very survival of Muslims is contingent upon appeasing the whims of the majority, often relegating them to a status of second-class citizenship. He paints a stark picture of the relentless ‘othering’ of Muslims and the systemic prejudice they endure, from political marginalization to media-fueled bigotry.
Despite the gravity of the subject matter, Salam’s narrative is not devoid of optimism. He highlights instances such as the Shaheen Bagh protests, where passion and resilience against prejudice shone through amid adversity. Through his writing, Salam encourages a silent, peaceful resistance – a form of internal jihad – to combat these challenges and strive for a better tomorrow.
One of the central themes of Salam’s book is the complex intersection of Indian and Muslim identities. He vehemently argues against the prevailing misconception that being Muslim is incompatible with being Indian. Salam reminds readers of Islam’s historical roots in India, emphasizing the coexistence of these identities long before the rise of modern Hindutva ideologies.
In an exclusive interview with Article-14, Salam reveals his motivations behind “Being Muslim in Hindu India.” He articulates a dual purpose: to draw attention to the ongoing marginalization of Muslims and attacks on the foundational idea of India, while also fulfilling a sense of responsibility to future generations. He seeks to ensure that history will remember those who spoke out against fascism and injustice.
Salam’s writing process, he shares, is a gradual evolution. Starting slowly, he builds momentum over time, crafting narratives that resonate with authenticity and urgency. His books are not just a reflection of journalistic experience but also inherit values and lessons from his formative years in a family of Islamic scholars.
Throughout the interview, Salam critiques the current political climate, pointing out the deliberate misrepresentation of historical events in popular culture and media. He is unflinching in his condemnation of Hindutva politics, asserting that his love for India remains unwavering despite the challenges posed by such ideologies.
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As India approaches a pivotal general election, Salam underscores its significance not only for Muslims but for the country’s identity as a pluralist democracy. He raises concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions and the specter of communalism, urging vigilance and advocacy for a truly inclusive India.
“Being Muslim in Hindu India” is a poignant exploration of identity, politics, and the struggle for equality in contemporary India. Ziya Us Salam’s work serves as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of resistance against prejudice and the quest for a more just society.
