By Mujeeb Rahman Kinalur
The Ludhiana Jama Masjid, a historic mosque in Punjab, India, holds a special place in the country’s freedom struggle. Built in 1670 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s governor, Nawab Bahadur Khan, this mosque has stood witness to the tumultuous journey of the Muslim community in Ludhiana.
During my visit to the mosque, I had the privilege of meeting Muhammad Usman Rahman Ludh Yanvi, the current Shahi Imam of Punjab. Despite his youthful age of 44, he exudes a sense of wisdom and authority, honed by his strong political influence and academic credentials as the first Shahi Imam to hold a PhD.
As we sat down to talk, I asked him, “Imam Sahib, can you tell me more about your family’s history and their role in India’s freedom struggle?”
He smiled, “My great-grandfather, Maulana Habibur Rahman Ludhianvi, was a renowned freedom fighter and scholar. He was a close associate of nationalist leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Together, they fought against British colonial rule, advocating for a united and independent India.”
The Imam continued, “My great-grandfather was also a prolific writer and orator. He penned several books on Islamic theology, philosophy, and politics, and was a vocal critic of British colonialism. His speeches and writings inspired a generation of Indians to join the freedom struggle.”
I was intrigued by his story and asked, “Can you tell me more about your great-grandfather’s involvement in the freedom movement?”
The Imam’s eyes lit up with pride, “Maulana Habibur Rahman Ludhianvi was a key figure in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Quit India Movement. He was arrested several times by the British authorities for his activism, but he never wavered in his commitment to the cause of Indian independence.”
I sensed a deep sense of admiration in the Imam’s voice and asked, “How did your family cope with the partition of India and Pakistan?”
The Imam’s expression turned somber, “The partition was a devastating blow to our family. We were torn apart, with some members migrating to Pakistan while others stayed behind in India. It was a painful separation, one that still resonates with us today.”
As I prepared to leave, I asked him, “What message would you like to convey to the people of India and Pakistan, especially in the context of partition?”
The Imam’s voice was filled with conviction, “Our forefathers fought for a united India, but narrow political interests divided us in the name of religion. I want to tell people that we must look beyond our differences and work towards a more inclusive and harmonious future.”
As I left the mosque, I felt a profound appreciation for the rich history of the Ludhiana Jama Masjid and the enduring legacy of Maulana Habibur Rahman Ludhianvi’s family. The mosque’s ancient walls, bearing witness to centuries of struggle and triumph, stood as a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the human spirit.
Mujeeb Rahman Kinalur is an author and cultural critic based in Calicut, Kerala.
7 March 2025
Source: countercurrents.org