Mangalore, July 6: There are striking similarities between the scenarios of the seventh century Arabia and the 21st century world. The teachings of the Quran are as relevant to the contemporary world as it was during the dawn of Islam, said Dr Sayed Akheel Ahmed, Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, Mysore University.
Delivering the keynote address at the releasing ceremony of the Kannada translation of the first volume of the 'Tafheem-ul-Quran' at Town Hall here on Friday, Dr. Ahmed reminded Muslims of their primary duty of presenting the message of Quran to the people of the country.
Listing the major similarities of the two eras, Dr Ahmed said that while the resurgence of Islam was the important aspect of the seventh century AD, resurgence of knowledge is the significant facet of 21st century.
Stating that the modern world is facing three major challenges namely globalisation, knowledge and change, he pointed out that Quran gives guidance on all the three important aspects confronting the mankind today.
Dr Ahmed lamented that even though the Muslims ruled the Indian subcontinent for around 1000 years they could not present the message of the Quran before the people of this country.
Dr Thalthaje Vasanth Kumar, retired chairman, Department of Kannada, Mumbai University, who formally released the book, said the new work was a unique gift for those Kannadiga's who have a thirst for knowledge.
Admiring the value of fraternity preached by Islam which had turned the most uncivilised people of world into the torchbearers of civilisation, Mr Kumar said that the role of the Quran and the teachings of the prophet played a key role in that regard.
Stating that one cannot target a religion if some of its followers committed mischiefs, he urged the people to understand the true message of Quran and take maximum benefit of the Kannada translation of 'Tafheem-ul-Quran'. “This work is so unique that all Kannadigas should try to imbibe its values,” he added.
In his remarks B.S. Sharfuddin, visiting faculty, IGNOU Centre, Kuwait, recalled how the senior litterateurs of Karnataka wholeheartedly welcomed the Kannada translation of the abridged version of the 'Tafheem-ul-Quran' that was released across major cities of Karnataka around 15 years ago.
He also pointed out that Quran is the only revealed book which has stood the test of time and remained unchanged for more than 1,400 years.
Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, President, DK Zilla Kannada Sahitya Parishat, congratulated 'Shanti Prakashana' for enriching the Kannada literature by contributing around 250 literary works.
He called upon Muslims to cultivate a sense of nationalism along with adhering to the teachings of Islam.
P. Noor Mohammed Uppinangady, the translator also spoke. Dr Muhammad Sa'ad Belgami, General Secretary, Jamaath-e-Islami Hind, Karnataka, presided over the programme. Mohammed Kunhi, joint secretary, Jamaath-e-Islami Hind Karnataka, welcomed the gathering. Rahmathullah Master compered the programme and delivered a vote of thanks. K.M. Ashraf, secretary, Jamaath-e-Islami Hind, Kanratka, K.M. Sharief were present on the occasion.
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