JIH Karnataka’s initiative promotes Islamic knowledge in Kannada while fostering communal unity
– Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa
Hunsur: Located in the heart of Mysuru district, Hunsur serves as a significant cultural and administrative centre in southern Karnataka. Known for its diverse population and rich heritage, the town has long been a symbol of communal harmony, where different religious communities coexist peacefully.
On Thursday evening, this spirit of unity was once again demonstrated when Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Honsur organised an “Eid Friendship Gathering” at Suman Function Hall to commemorate Bakrid or Eid al-Adha. The interfaith event, part of JIH Karnataka’s broader initiative to make Islamic knowledge accessible to local Kannadigas in their native language, brought together religious leaders from Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities.
The programme reflects JIH Karnataka’s sustained efforts to bridge cultural gaps by presenting Islamic teachings and values in Kannada, thereby creating better understanding among local communities and fostering an environment of social harmony across the state.
Sri Sri Nataraj Mahaswamiji of Om Sri Guruling Jangamadev Mutt, Gavadagere, delivered a profound message emphasising inner purification. “Just as we are concerned about our external appearance, we must also make efforts to reflect on our inner selves. Social welfare becomes possible only when we strive to purify our inner being,” the Hindu spiritual leader told the gathering of approximately 400 attendees.
Akbar Ali Udupi, Secretary of JIH Karnataka, addressed the fundamental unity of humanity in his keynote speech. “The Almighty has divided us into clans and tribes merely for identification purposes – this is a natural system. This arrangement should serve as a foundation for mutual recognition and love, not as a source of enmity, jealousy, or hatred. We must all remember that we are, above all, human beings,” he emphasised.
Rev. Fr. George Martis of St. Xavier’s Church, Hunsur, representing the Christian community, shared his perspectives on interfaith dialogue and the importance of such gatherings in strengthening communal bonds. His participation underscored the inclusive nature of the event and the shared commitment to promoting religious harmony.
Local Kannada media outlets provided extensive coverage of the event, with newspapers and social Media channels highlighting the positive response from the community. The coverage emphasised the appreciative tone of participants and the significance of such interfaith initiatives in maintaining Karnataka’s tradition of religious tolerance and mutual respect.
The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including Abdussalam Oppinangadi, Abdul Khadar, Zainul Abideen, and Peer Latageri, among others. Attendees expressed enthusiasm for the continuation of such programmes, viewing them as essential for maintaining the region’s harmonious social fabric.
This initiative is part of JIH Karnataka’s ongoing commitment to promote understanding of Islamic principles among Kannada-speaking populations while simultaneously working toward creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and social cohesion across religious communities in the state.
