– Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa
Bengaluru: In an era where social media is a dominant tool of influence and narrative-building, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), Karnataka took a decisive step forward by organising the Social Media Influencers Meet 2025 at Ashirvad here. The event brought together more than 60 Muslim social media influencers from across the state, marking the beginning of a long-term effort to strengthen the Muslim presence in digital spaces.
The meet aimed to build cooperation, exchange knowledge, and address common challenges faced by Muslim content creators, journalists, educators, and communicators working across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, X, and blogs. It also reflected the growing realisation that social media must be engaged with thoughtfully and strategically.
A Rich and Purpose-Driven Programme
The day-long sessions combined practical tips with ideological and ethical guidance for participants.
Abdussalam Putegey, senior journalist and media thinker, urged participants to move beyond defensive reactions and focus instead on proactively presenting Islam’s true message. He emphasised that Muslims already have a wealth of authentic scholarship, which should be repackaged in modern, creative formats for today’s audiences. He also encouraged critical understanding of how Muslims are represented in mainstream media and who controls those narratives.
Irshad from Deccan Herald offered an analytical view of what makes content go viral, highlighting the role of timing, relevance, emotional appeal, and authenticity in reaching larger audiences – without relying on sensationalism.
Hamza, a digital consultant, explored the technical and financial aspects of content creation, covering platform algorithms, monetisation strategies, and sustainable ways to grow online while holding to ethical principles.
Rafeeq from Udayavani steered an important discussion on media ethics in the age of misinformation. He reminded influencers that truth, fairness, and responsibility must remain central to their work, especially when representing faith-based values.
The programme closed with an inspiring address by Dr. Mohammed Saad Belgami, Ameer Halqa of JIH Karnataka. He spoke of the immense potential of social media to reach millions with the message of Islam using minimal resources. At the same time, he acknowledged the persistent challenges of misinformation, hate speech, and propaganda. He called for organised, collective efforts rooted in Qur’anic wisdom, patience, and a sense of mission, urging participants to transform isolated efforts into a cohesive movement for truth and justice.
A Beginning with Vision
The Social Media Influencers Meet 2025 was not simply an event. It was the start of a network of purpose-driven digital voices across Karnataka. Participants left with renewed energy and a shared understanding that their online presence can be a tool for positive change when grounded in truth, ethics, and cooperation.
This initiative by JIH Karnataka signals a shift from mere participation in digital spaces to active shaping of narratives with principle, creativity, and collective strength.
[The writer was part of the organising team for the Social Media Influencers Meet 2025. This report is based on direct participation, observation, and feedback from attendees and speakers.]
