Zafar Darik Qasmi

Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman is remembered as a distinguished scholar whose work significantly contributed to Hindu–Muslim harmony and the broader ideals of coexistence in India. He passed away on this day in 1998 at the age of 76.

Originally from Desna village in Patna district of Bihar, Syed Sabahuddin’s journey took a transformative turn in 1935 when he joined Darul Musannifeen (Shibli Academy), an institution known for its historical and cultural research. There, he deepened his engagement with India’s past, and the cultural, social, and political interactions between diverse communities.

He highlighted India’s tradition of social cohesion, shared cultural values, and mutual respect. His meticulous study of medieval Indian history revealed numerous examples of the tolerant and inclusive policies of Muslim rulers. This scholarship culminated in his acclaimed three-volume work, Hindustan ke Ahd-e-Mazi Mein Muslim Hukmaranon ki Mazhabi Rawadari (Religious Tolerance of Muslim Rulers in India’s Past).

In this monumental study, Syed Sabahuddin documented Muslim rulers, including the Mughals, who encouraged peaceful coexistence and promoted cultural exchange. His book, Islam Mein Mazhabi Rawadari (Religious Tolerance in Islam) chronicles this account and also highlighted Islam’s foundations of justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity.

A recurring theme in all his writings is the belief that India’s greatest strength lies in its diversity. He consistently argued that Indian civilization developed through the cooperation of many faiths, languages, and cultural traditions. His works vividly capture the ethos of Indian society—inclusiveness, composite culture, and enduring spirit of harmony.

Syed Sabahuddin showed that Muslim rulers largely upheld principles of tolerance. They maintained close ties with local communities, respected religious customs, upheld personal laws, and often appointed Hindus to key administrative positions.

His analysis of Mughal policy includes notable examples such as Emperor Akbar’s initiative to translate major Hindu texts—the Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Upanishads—into Persian. These translations promoted cultural exchange and bridged intellectual distances between communities.
(Reference: Hindustan ke Ahd-e-Mazi Mein Muslim Hukmaranon ki Mazhabi Rawadari)

Syed Sabahuddin’s writings also counter the modern misconception that Muslim rulers were uniformly oppressive toward the Hindu population. Using historical sources, he concluded that such claims often stem from selective readings of history. Distorting the contributions of any community, he warned, weakens India’s democratic and constitutional values. A balanced understanding of the past is essential for preserving peace and mutual trust in the present.

He also observed that earlier people of different religions often displayed remarkable respect, cooperation, and goodwill.

In today’s climate of social tension and cultural conflict, the writings of Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman serve as a powerful reminder of India’s shared heritage. His work revives collective values of understanding, emotional maturity, and cultural harmony—qualities essential for building a peaceful society.

His books continue to be studied in academic institutions and research centers across India.

By exploring India’s rich history of religious dialogue and cultural exchange, he emphasized that the true remedy for social discord lies in knowledge, patience, and meaningful conversation. Societies, he wrote, are sustained not by force or dominance but by empathy, openness, and constructive engagement.

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Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman’s scholarly legacy thus remains a guiding light for all who seek to promote harmony in a diverse nation. His writings remind us that India’s future depends on strengthening the bonds that have long held its people together—bonds of respect, shared heritage, and mutual trust.

Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi is Aligarh-based Islamic Scholar