The founder of “Know Our History” is Sofi Imran, who established this organization five years ago. During the opening of the program, he stated, “Our aim is to raise awareness about our community’s history and educate them about who liberated India and the histories of our Muslim kings.”
He also mentioned, “Today marks the completion of five years since the establishment of our organization. During this time, we have consistently organized programs across different parts of Andhra Pradesh. To celebrate our five-year journey, we have organized this special program and invited the renowned journalist and editor of Millat Times, Shams Tabrez Qasmi, as our guest of honor.”
Addressing the audience at the program, Shams Tabrez Qasmi emphasized, “History forms the bedrock of Muslim identity. It provides us the strength to envision a brighter future. Our history holds immense significance, and by understanding it, we can shape a better tomorrow.”
He further commented, “The current Indian government and right-wing ideologues are reshaping the narrative of Muslims. They make false claims to capture Muslim mosques and defame Muslim kings. Additionally, the sacrifices made by our Freedom Fighters are being forgotten, which we must acknowledge and comprehend.”
Shams Tabrez Qasmi clarified, “Aurangzeb Alamgir is often accused of fratricide before becoming king. However, Ashoka had also allegedly murdered 99 brothers, a fact rarely mentioned. Similarly, Aurangzeb Alamgir is accused of demolishing thousands of temples, but historical evidence shows he granted land for over 400 temples and provided stipends from the treasury to priests.”
Regarding the temple demolitions, Shams Tabrez Qasmi added, “It is true that Aurangzeb demolished a few temples. However, these actions were prompted by reports of priests involved in crimes such as rape and brutality against women. For instance, at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, priests misused women, prompting action from Aurangzeb’s soldiers.”
He continued, “Similarly, Sher-e-Mysore Tipu Sultan is accused of destroying temples. Yet, there were two temples near his residence, and he tolerated their presence, hearing the temple bells constantly. There is no evidence that Tipu Sultan forcibly converted Hindus to Islam.”
Shams Tabrez Qasmi asserted, “British officials of that era spread falsehoods about Tipu Sultan to tarnish his image among Hindus, despite his inclusive governance. Hindus held significant positions under Tipu Sultan’s administration, much like during the Mughal Empire.”
Highlighting contemporary issues, Shams Tabrez Qasmi remarked, “Recently, history has been misrepresented in Bollywood and social media. Films need critical evaluation. Millat Times has initiated ‘The History Point’ to present history accurately and counter the distortions seen in social media and films.”
Historian Syed Obaidur Rehman also addressed the program, discussing the role of Muslim Freedom Fighters in India’s independence struggle. He emphasized, “The fight for India’s independence began as early as 1857, with Bahadur Shah Zafar being a notable Freedom Fighter. Islam’s spread in India was through peace, not coercion. The first mosque in India, Masjid-e-Chiraman, was built in Chiraman, where King Chiraman embraced Islam after visiting Saudi Arabia.”
Guntur MLA Mohammad Naseer participated in the program and extended a warm welcome to the guests from Delhi. He stated, “We appreciate your visit to our city and look forward to future collaborations and programs.”
The program concluded with a prayer (Dua).
