Teach children history, not dance.
✍🏻By the pen of Muhammad Aadil Arariavi
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Respected readers, today is January 26th, Republic Day. On this occasion, events are organized in various schools, colleges, universities, academies, and some madrassas across the country. In these programs, everyone expresses joy together, national songs are presented, and various educational and cultural activities take place. This is a welcome thing because on this day we get an opportunity to remember the history and constitutional values of our country. However, it is with regret that I have to say that some institutions include programs that are against our civilization, religious values, and Islamic identity, such as making children dance. This act is not only unnecessary but also shameful and undesirable for a Muslim society. As Muslims, we should take care that our events are dignified and within our religious and moral boundaries. Instead, it would be more appropriate and meaningful to familiarize our children with the conditions of our ancestors, elders, scholars, and freedom fighters. They should be told how the scholars made sacrifices of their blood and liver to play an important role in the independence of this country. Our history is full of sacrifices, struggles, and determination, which is the joint responsibility of all of us to pass on to the new generation.
I remember that once on the occasion of January 26, I went to a school in my area. There we asked a few Muslim students what day it was today, what its importance was, and who played a role in the independence of the country. It is with regret that I have to say that most of the children only mentioned the names of non-Muslim personalities, while among Muslims, only one or two names, such as Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, were mentioned, even that without complete information. This situation is very sad that Muslim children are becoming unaware of their own history and their benefactors. If the same question is asked to the students of madrassas, they would at least mention the names of a few scholars because there they are regularly made aware of their history through programs and lessons. But who will tell all this to the Muslim children studying in schools? There, only the names and achievements of others have been filled in their minds, while the sacrifices of Muslims are mentioned negligibly. We need to seriously consider this issue. If we do not pass on our history, our elders, and our identity to the new generation, the day is not far when attempts to erase our story will be completely successful. Unfortunately, some people have already been quite successful in this direction.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of all of us to make our children aware of our religious, national, and historical heritage, teach them to be proud of their identity, and make our events dignified, constructive, and purposeful. This is the better and safer path for us and our future generations.
May Allah Almighty grant us correct understanding. Amen, Lord of the Worlds.