A well-known historian and author of several books on history, Syed Ubaidur Rahman, captivated his audience with his lecture on Indian Muslim history.
During his engaging lecture at HERF’s Prayer Hall in Kanpur on November 27, Rahman whose latest book Peaceful Expansion of Islam in India has got positive reviews covered the period from 712 AD all the way to the 19th century.
Each session was followed by a live question-and-answer segment, sparking meaningful conversations with the audience.
Rahman’s writing and speaking skills on Indian Muslim history praised
After listening to the questions, Rahman answered them in a clear and simple manner, making sure to explain the complexities of history without using any confusing jargon, so the audience could easily understand. After the four-hour session, the large audience expressed their appreciation for Rahman’s writing and speaking skills. They admired his tireless efforts to present history and explain historical events in a way that was both engaging and easy to understand. Over the years, Rahman has built a strong reputation and is regularly invited by organizations across the country to share his insights on Muslim history and educate audiences. In addition to writing books and delivering captivating lectures, he also runs an online history course that focuses on medieval history.
Indian Muslim history: Delhi Sultanate
The first session was interesting as Rahman spoke about the Delhi Sultanate. He threw light on the empire’s origins and the prominent rulers of the Slave Dynasty like Iltutmish, Balban, Alauddin Khilji, Muhammad bin Tughluq, and Firoz Tughluq.
He talked on how the Sultanate played a crucial role in repelling Mongol invasions and protecting Indian borders when the Mongols were on the rampage and unbeatable, ravaging several parts of the world.
It was during this time that Delhi also had become a vibrant centre of Islamic culture, with schools and colleges flourishing under these rulers, highlighted Rahman.
Indian Muslim history: Mughal Empire
After ten minutes break, the second session was started in which the author and historian talked about the Mughal Empire, starting with Babur’s rise to power, his military genius, and intellectual influence. Rahman emphasised how the Mughals, during their 350-year reign, brought peace and prosperity to India. They established vital institutions like schools, colleges, and libraries, and were great patrons of learning.
Rahman threw lights on the Mughal Imperial Library. He said he was one of the many examples of Mughal’s dedication to knowledge.
Besides rulers, Mughals were also die-hard supporters of arts.
Indian Muslim history: Muslim Sultanates
It was in the third session that Rahman’s subject of lecture was Muslim Sultanates, including the Sultanate of Maabar in Madurai, the Bahmani Sultanate, and those in Gujarat, Malwa, and Bijapur.
He captivated the audience by informing them about how Kashmir’s King Rinchen Shah was converted by the revered Sufi Hazrat Bulbul Shah.
The Nizam Shahi Sultanate of Ahmadnagar and the Mysore Sultanate were also discussed. During this session, a special focus was on the legacy of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan.
The event saw participation from HERF’s students and faculty.
This extension lecture, titled “Muslim Rule in India: 712 AD to the 19th Century”, was hosted by the Co-curricular Activities Department of Haque Education and Research Foundation (HERF), Kanpur. The event was organized under the guidance of Mufti Abdul Rasheed Qasmi, Chairman of HERF, and Maulana Ameenul Haq Abdullah Qasmi, Vice Chairman.
