Jaunpur: A major conference on Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Solidarity brought together scholars, clerics, intellectuals, professors, and members of the public at Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq School in the Begum Ganj area of Jaunpur, India, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Unity Week.
Indian cleric Syed Kalb-e-Rashid addressed the gathering and described the Prophet as “Mercy to the Worlds.” He said the Prophet’s life teaches that Shia, Sunni, and followers of other faiths can build a united, compassionate, and peaceful society by setting aside their differences. “The Messenger of Allah even forgave his enemies, teaching humanity lessons of unity, forgiveness, and tolerance through his conduct. Today, the Islamic Ummah and Indian society need such a spirit more than ever,” he said.
Rashid underlined that unity extends beyond intra-Muslim boundaries. “Unity does not merely mean bringing Shia and Sunni together. All segments of society, including Hindus and Muslims, must work side by side to build a secure, united, and progressive society. The true meaning of unity is the bonding of hearts and strengthening empathy among people.”
Hindu community leader Pandit Vijay Kumar Sharma echoed this message. “India is the land of sages, rishis, and prophets. The teachings of both the Vedas and the Holy Quran invite humanity to love, truth, and humanitarianism. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed humanity the path of honesty, trustworthiness, and brotherhood. Such dialogues help dismantle walls of hatred and misunderstanding.”
Dr. Jafari, head of Jaunpur Medical College, drew on his medical background to frame sectarianism as a social disease. “The Holy Prophet placed immense value on human dignity. Hatred and sectarianism in society are like a disease whose only cure lies in love, dialogue, and strengthening social solidarity.”
Syed Taqi Taqvi, representative of Iran’s Culture House in Delhi, referenced the Prophet’s declaration of a general amnesty during the conquest of Mecca. “Islam is not a religion of vengeance, but one of mercy, forgiveness, and humanitarianism. The younger generation must become more familiar with the invaluable dimensions of the Prophet’s life,” he said.
Indian cleric Syed Kazim Mahdi Urooj, drawing on the teachings of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS), stressed that Muslims share common fundamentals of monotheism, prophethood, and the Holy Quran despite jurisprudential differences, and called on all social groups to stand together for genuine national progress.
The conference concluded with the recognition of ten distinguished figures who had served society across various fields, each honored with certificates of appreciation and commemorative shields.
