Vande Mataram: As India marks 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” the MMU in Jammu & Kashmir, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, opposed the government’s directive to celebrate it in schools, calling it an attempt to impose RSS ideology under the guise of cultural events.
The Controversy in Jammu & Kashmir
According to the J&K government’s directive, schools were instructed to organise musical and cultural programs as part of the Vande Mataram celebrations. The Department of Culture mentioned that the participation of schools is “crucial for ensuring wider outreach and meaningful involvement of young students.”However, the MMU expressed strong opposition, saying the move has caused “anguish among Muslims” who view the directive as coercive. In their statement, they appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to withdraw the order immediately.
The Religious Standpoint
The MMU clarified that their objection is not rooted in opposition to India or patriotism, but in religious principles. They explained that the lyrics of Vande Mataram include lines that reverence the nation as a deity, which, according to Islamic teachings, contradicts the belief in Tawheed, the oneness of God. “Forcing Muslim students or institutions to participate in activities that conflict with their faith is both unjust and unacceptable,” their statement read. The group emphasized that Islam encourages patriotism through service, compassion, and social contribution, but it doesn’t allow acts that could resemble idol worship or deification.
Patriotism Beyond a Song
The MMU underlined that Muslim citizens across India continue to show their love for the nation through social work, education, and national service. They stressed that patriotism should not be judged by one’s willingness to sing a particular song but by one’s dedication and contribution to the country’s welfare. As India marks 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” it’s important to remember that unity doesn’t come from uniformity. The national song holds historic and cultural importance, but its celebration should also respect the diversity of faiths and beliefs that make India truly unique.
