New Delhi, August 15:The Indian Institute of Islamic Studies and Research (IIISR) celebrated the 80th Independence Day of India with a programme focusing on the deeper meaning of freedom, the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle, and the responsibilities of the younger generation towards the country. The programme was held at the Afzal Hussain Auditorium on August 15, 2026, under the convenorship of Research Trainee Shehroz Alam.
The programme was attended by IIISR Academic Director Shaikh Javed Iqbal, Chief Guest Prof. Wasim Ahmad Khan of the Faculty of Education, Jamia Millia Islamia and former Chief Proctor of Jamia, along with faculty members Anisur Rahman and Haris Nadvi and students of the institute. Shehroz Alam conducted the proceedings.
The programme commenced with the recitation of selected verses from Surah Al-Qalam by Muhammad Osama. The verses highlighted the exemplary character and moral excellence of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This was followed by patriotic songs presented by Muhammad Abdur Rahman and Muhammad Khan. Iqbal’s famous patriotic poem, “Sare Jahan Se Achha,” was also presented, setting a patriotic tone for the occasion.
Addressing the gathering in his opening remarks, Academic Director Shaikh Javed Iqbal offered a broader interpretation of the concept of freedom. He said that freedom was often understood primarily in political terms, whereas its significance extended far beyond political independence.
Describing freedom as a blessing from Allah, he said that, from an Islamic perspective, genuine freedom also meant liberation from uncontrolled desires, ignorance, persecution, falsehood and injustice. Referring to the Qur’anic principle of worshipping Allah alone, he explained that freedom should not be confused with the unrestricted pursuit of one’s wishes.
According to him, a truly free individual is one who is not enslaved by personal desires and weaknesses but is capable of exercising self-control and living according to moral and divine guidance. He stressed that freedom also carries responsibility. Possession of rights, he said, does not give anyone the licence to misuse them or violate the rights of others.
Shaikh Javed Iqbal urged students to remain free from falsehood, humiliation of others, injustice and denial of people’s legitimate rights. Referring to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the message of the Farewell Sermon, he emphasised the principle that no individual is superior to another on the basis of race or lineage and that true superiority lies in piety.
He called upon the students to become constructive and responsible members of society and urged them to maintain respect for their teachers, parents and fellow human beings. One of the notable observations in his address was that indiscipline itself could become a form of slavery. A person unable to discipline himself, he observed, remains controlled by his weaknesses and desires and therefore cannot experience genuine freedom.
Following his address, the Academic Director presented a bouquet to Chief Guest Prof. Wasim Ahmad Khan as a gesture of welcome and respect before inviting him to address the gathering.
In his lecture, Prof. Wasim Ahmad Khan highlighted the contribution and sacrifices of Indian Muslims and Muslim scholars during the struggle for independence. Recalling the long history of resistance to British rule, he particularly drew attention to the role played by Muslim leaders, scholars and organisations.
He referred to the Reshmi Rumal Tehreek and the persecution suffered by thousands of Ulama during British rule. He also recalled the contributions of prominent freedom fighters, including Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Ashfaqulla Khan, emphasising that India’s freedom struggle was shaped by the sacrifices of people belonging to diverse communities and backgrounds.
Prof. Khan also underlined the importance of education in nation-building. Referring to the educational vision associated with Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and the contributions of institutions such as Aligarh Muslim University and Jamia Millia Islamia, he said education should not be viewed merely as a means of securing employment or earning money.
Instead, he argued, education should develop individuals, strengthen society and contribute to the positive transformation of the nation. He encouraged students to view themselves not merely as inheritors of the country but as its protectors and responsible citizens.
During his interaction with the students, the Chief Guest asked questions concerning fundamental values and the pillars of the Indian Constitution, including equality and justice. The interactive session provided students an opportunity to engage with the speaker and seek his views on issues relating to citizenship, education and constitutional values.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Subhan Ahmed. He expressed gratitude to the Academic Director, Chief Guest, faculty members, organisers and students for their presence and contributions to the successful conduct of the Independence Day programme.
Sweets were distributed among the participants following the conclusion of the formal proceedings.
The Independence Day celebration at IIISR thus went beyond a ceremonial observance of India’s independence. It provided a platform for students and faculty to reflect on the meaning of freedom and its relationship with discipline, responsibility, education, equality, justice and service to society. The programme combined remembrance of the sacrifices made during India’s freedom struggle with a call to the present generation to uphold the country’s constitutional and moral values and contribute positively to its future.
