THE ‘ERA OF FREEDOM’

THE ‘ERA OF FREEDOM’ lacking rational arguments to address the religious misunderstandings of others effectively. Instead of providing sound, logical arguments, they often become angry when the Prophet is insulted. In this regard, Muslims should focus on addressing their own shortcomings rather than reacting with anger towards others. They fail to realize that their reactive behaviour is tarnishing the reputation of Islam. Muslims strongly react against figures like Rushdie, citing the protection of the honour of the Holy Prophet as their motive. However, their efforts are futile if their reactions genuinely aim to protect the Prophet’s honour. Swami Shardhananda, the founder of the Shuddhi movement in India, authored a book called “Rangeela Rasool,” which sparked a strong Muslim protest in the Indian subcontinent. They considered the book highly insulting to the honour and greatness of the Prophet of Islam. Tragically, in December 1926, Swami Shardhananda was assassinated by a Muslim youth named Abdul Rashid. His widowed mother, however, willingly allowed her only son to be sacrificed in an attempt to save the honour of the Prophet. Despite this extreme step to protect the Prophet’s honour, the desired goal has not been achieved. Following his assassination, Swami Shardhananda became a national hero in India, gaining the status of a “martyr.” When India gained independence in 1947, a tall statue of Swami Shardhananda was erected at Chandni Chowk, a major intersection in the Indian capital, New Delhi.