Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani on Tuesday addressed the ongoing debate surrounding Vande Mataram, stating that while Muslims have no objection to anyone singing the national song, its content contradicts Islamic monotheism. The remarks come amid parliamentary discussions marking the 150th anniversary of the song.
In a post on X, Madani highlighted that in the four verses of Vande Mataram, the homeland is likened to a deity and to Durga Mata, and the language used is akin to worship. “A Muslim worships only one Allah and cannot associate anyone else with Him. The song’s verses go against this fundamental belief,” he explained.
He further elaborated that the literal meaning of Vande Mataram is ‘Mother, I worship you’, which conflicts with Islamic teachings. Madani emphasized that no citizen can be forced to chant or sing slogans or songs that contradict their faith, pointing to Articles 19 and 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression and religion.
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Madani underlined that love for the nation is separate from worship. He said, “Muslims do not need anyone’s certificate to prove their patriotism—their sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle are a shining chapter of history. We believe in one God; besides Allah, we accept no one as worthy of worship and bow before none.”
He added, “Muslims would accept death, but never polytheism,” asserting that religious beliefs cannot be compromised even in the name of nationalism. His remarks underline the tension between cultural symbolism and religious convictions in the ongoing debate over the song.
The statements were made in the context of heated parliamentary discussions, where PM Narendra Modi criticized Congress for allegedly fragmenting Vande Mataram due to Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s objections, describing it as part of appeasement politics. The debate has reignited discussions on nationalism, religion, and cultural identity across India.
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