In a significant gathering at the holy city of Varanasi, renowned Sangh leader and chief patron of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Indresh Kumar, delivered a powerful address on the indispensable connection between education and values. The event, attended by around 10 thousand Muslims from diverse age groups, witnessed Kumar’s insightful reflections on the transformative potential of education when intertwined with core values.
Kumar drew attention to the analogy that “education without values is like a locked door.” He expounded on the idea that education, without the guiding principles of humanity, remains inaccessible and incomplete. Urging individuals to not only strive for proficiency but also to embody values of compassion and peace, Kumar emphasized the dual role that education and values play in shaping responsible citizens.
Highlighting the contemporary situation in Pakistan, Kumar pointed out the internal conflicts and violence plaguing the country. In contrast, he painted a picture of India as the land of Maryada Purushottam, where people of diverse religions, classes, and communities coexist in unity and love. Kumar’s call for imbibing Indian culture and education in Pakistan aimed at fostering an atmosphere of peace and humanity garnered attention and contemplation.
During the discourse, Kumar touched upon the situation in Kashmir, acknowledging the peace-loving nature of its people. He condemned the misguided individuals who resort to violence and drew a clear distinction between religious teachings and fundamentalism. Emphasizing the universality of the message, Kumar called for a united effort to make India free from untouchability, riots, terrorism, poverty, illiteracy, and religious conversion.
In clarifying the distinction between religion and fundamentalism, Indresh Kumar emphasized that religion does not promote hatred among individuals. He highlighted that this principle is evident in the Indian government’s proactive approach, consistently assisting in the form of food grains, vaccines, medicines, and medical equipment, and occasionally delivering trucks and containers filled with blankets, clothes, and other essential items during times of global need.
President of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Mohammad Afzal, stressed the importance of unity in diversity, emphasizing the need for harmonious coexistence. National coordinator Syed Raza Hussain Rizvi commended Kumar for his inclusive approach, noting that he has woven together every section of society like a garland, irrespective of religious affiliations.
Shalini Ali, the woman head of the forum, contributed to the dialogue on religious equality. She urged mutual respect and participation in each other’s festivals, promoting a sense of shared cultural understanding. The event also featured a seminar on education and values organized by the Al Hanif Educational Group, where college students showcased a dance and color program centered around the theme of education and values. Another program was organized by Muslim Rashtriya Manch named Sare Jahan Se Achchha Hindustan Hamara by the convener of UP East Mohammad Azharuddin.
The gathering dispelled rumors related to Muslim life honor, and the event concluded with the Chairman of Al Hanif Educational Group, Haji Wasim, expressing gratitude to all attendees. As a symbol of unity, everyone present raised slogans of “Jai Shri Ram” in unison, marking the culmination of a historic and culturally rich event.
