Dr. Zafar Dariq Qasmi/ New Delhi

Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman is remembered as a distinguished scholar whose work made a major contribution to the larger ideals of Hindu–Muslim harmony and peaceful coexistence in India. Originally from Desna village in Patna district, Syed Sabahuddin’s intellectual journey took a historic turn in 1935 when he joined Darul Musannifeen (Shibli Academy), an institution renowned for historical and cultural research. It was here that he deepened his engagement with India’s past, particularly with the cultural, social and political interactions between different communities.

Through rigorous research, he highlighted India’s long tradition of social unity, shared cultural values and mutual respect. His meticulous study of medieval Indian history brought forward many examples of the tolerant and inclusive policies of Muslim rulers. This scholarship resulted in his celebrated three-volume work, Hindustan ke Ahd-e-Mazi mein Muslim Hukmaranon ki Mazhabi Ravadari (Religious Tolerance of Muslim Rulers in India’s Past).

In this monumental study, Syed Sabahuddin demonstrated how Muslim rulers, especially during the Mughal period, actively promoted coexistence and encouraged cultural exchange. He expanded on these ideas in his later book, Islam mein Mazhabi Ravadari (Religious Tolerance in Islam), where he emphasised the moral foundations of Islam rooted in justice, compassion and respect for human dignity.

A recurring theme across his writings is the conviction that India’s greatest strength lies in its diversity. He consistently argued that Indian civilisation evolved through the cooperation of multiple religions, languages and cultural traditions. His works clearly portray the character of Indian society, its inclusive spirit, its composite culture, and its enduring ethos of harmony.

Using historical evidence, Syed Sabahuddin showed that Muslim rulers largely upheld principles of tolerance, maintaining close relations with local communities, respecting religious practices, preserving personal laws, and frequently appointing Hindus to important administrative positions.

His analysis of Mughal policy includes significant examples such as Emperor Akbar’s initiative to translate major Hindu scriptures, the Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana and Upanishads, into Persian. These translations encouraged cultural exchange and reduced intellectual distance between communities. (Reference: Hindustan ke Ahd-e-Mazi mein Muslim Hukmaranon ki Mazhabi Ravadari)

He observed that such interactions produced shared languages, blended cultural expressions and a broader collective identity. He argued that India’s rich heritage rests on this very synthesis, where diversity forms the foundation of its civilisation.

Syed Sabahuddin’s writings also counter today’s misconception that Muslim rulers uniformly persecuted the Hindu population. By using a wide range of historical sources, he demonstrated that such claims arise from selective readings of history. He warned that distorting the contribution of any community weakens India’s democratic and constitutional values. For preserving peace and trust today, a balanced understanding of the past is essential.

He further pointed out that even in earlier centuries, people often showed deep respect, cooperation and goodwill despite religious differences. His insights are especially relevant in today’s world, where societies across the globe face rising intolerance and polarisation. In the current climate of social tension and cultural conflict, the works of Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman offer a powerful reminder of India’s shared heritage. His scholarship revives collective values such as understanding, emotional maturity and cultural exchange — qualities necessary to build a peaceful society.

His books continue to be widely studied in academic institutions and research centres across India, where scholars draw on his contributions to better understand the subcontinent’s composite culture. Reflecting on India’s rich history of inter-religious dialogue and cultural exchange, he emphasised that the true remedy for social discord lies in knowledge, patience and meaningful engagement. He wrote that societies endure not through force or domination, but through empathy, openness and healthy connections.

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Thus, the intellectual legacy of Syed Sabahuddin Abd-ur-Rahman serves as a guiding light for all who seek harmony in a diverse nation. His writings remind us that India’s future depends on strengthening the relationships that have long bound its people together — relationships of respect, shared heritage and mutual trust.

Dr. Zafar Dariq Qasmi is a writer and Islamic scholar.