Updated 11 August 2008
In continuation of its efforts in external Tableegh, The World Federation sponsored the publication of booklets for mass distribution in Muharram in Mumbai, India. The endeavour was facilitated by World Islamic Network (WIN) who make good use of the opportunity available during the Muharram season when there are large gatherings for Azadari ceremonies and especially the major processions that pass through predominantly non-Muslim areas of Mumbai.
During these processions WIN distributes leaflets on various topics to enlighten the public that comes to watch the processions, about true Islam and remove misunderstandings. At the same time this literature is also distributed at major railway stations in Mumbai.
Leaflets/booklets published by WIN for mass distribution include:
- What is Muharram? – In English, Hindi, Urdu and Marathi - Sponsored by The World Federation
- What is Jihad? – In English and Hindi - sponsored by The World Federation
- Peaceful Co-existence – In English, Hindi
- Islam Denounces Terrorism – In English, Urdu and Hindi
- Tragedy of Muharram – In English, Hindi and Marathi
- Facts about Palestine – In English and Urdu
This year WIN printed 30000 copies of 'What is Muharram?' And 20000 copies of 'What is Jihad?' They were mainly distributed at the 4 prominent railways stations in Mumbai: VT, Bandra, Andheri and Mira Road.
The main theme of the leaflets is to highlight the sacrifice of Imam Husain (a.s.) and how it is applicable to the present age when the name of Islam is associated with terrorism and the Muslims are looked upon with suspicion. Another aim of our literature is to counter the propaganda of Western media against Muslims.
The response received was remarkable and people who read our literature are surprised to learn the true nature of Islam. They write , send emails and even call the office to convey their positive response and ask us to send them more literature. Hence the leaflets are only a first step in promoting true Islam.
Zaheer Abbas Merchant of WIN said, "We are grateful to The World Federation and other Mu'mineen for donating to this cause. The leaflets and booklets made a tremendous impact on our tableegh work and were valued by all."
Sheikh Abbas Ismail commented, "The distribution of such information by WIN is on an excellent scale and reaches many people. I commend them for their efforts and look forward to working with them even more closely in their efforts to promote tableegh to the wider Indian community."
For further information, email islamiceducation@world-federation.org