The Staunch Opposition of Hashmat Ali Khan Qadri to the Two-Nation Theory

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 26 August 2024 Muhammad Hashmat Ali Khan Qadri Lucknowi Fiercely Opposed The Two-Nation Theory, Advocating For Indian Unity Through Islamic Principles Main Points: 1. Hashmat Ali Khan opposed the Two-Nation Theory, supporting Indian unity over partition. 2. His stance was based on Islamic principles advocating coexistence. 3. He co-founded Jamat-e-Ahle Sunnat to counter the Muslim League’s narrative. 4. His critiques were published in works challenging the partition ideology. ------ Maulana Muhammad Hashmat Ali Khan Qadri Lucknowi (1902–1960), celebrated as Sher Beesha-e-Ahle Sunnat, was a prominent Islamic scholar and cleric of the Barelvi movement. While his scholarly achievements are widely acknowledged, his fervent opposition to the Two-Nation Theory and his role in advocating for a unified Indian identity mark a critical dimension of his legacy. This article delves into his significant stance against the Two-Nation Theory and its implications for South Asian politics and Islamic scholarship. Early Life and Academic Excellence Born in 1902 in Amethi, Lucknow, Muhammad Hashmat Ali Khan exhibited remarkable intellectual capabilities from a young age. By nine, he had memorized the Quran, earning the esteemed title of Hafizul Quran. At twelve, he had mastered the seven canonical recitations of the Quran, ‘Qirat-e-Saba’. His educational journey continued under the guidance of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the founder of the Barelvi movement, at Darul Uloom Manzar-e-Islam in Bareilly. His intellectual acumen and debating skills earned him the title of “Abul Fatah” and laid the foundation for his future contributions. Opposition to the Two-Nation Theory Hashmat Ali Khan’s opposition to the Two-Nation Theory was a defining aspect of his career. The Two-Nation Theory, advocated by Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Muslim League, proposed the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation for Muslims, distinct from Hindu-majority India. Hashmat Ali Khan, alongside other Barelvi ulema such as Syed Shah Aulad-e-Rasool Muhammad Miyan, vehemently opposed this ideology. Hashmat Ali Khan's resistance was not merely a matter of political dissent but was deeply rooted in his theological and ideological beliefs. He argued that the Two-Nation Theory was contrary to the principles of unity and harmony espoused by Islam. In 1939, he and his contemporaries formed the Jamat-e-Ahle Sunnat, an organization aimed at countering the Muslim League’s claims and promoting a unified Indian identity that transcended sectarian divisions. Jamat-e-Ahle Sunnat and Its Impact The formation of Jamat-e-Ahle Sunnat marked a significant moment in the political and religious landscape of pre-partition India. Headquartered at Khanqah-e-Barakaatiya in Marehra, Etah district, the organization published influential works such as ‘Muslim League Ki Zarri Bakhiya’ and ‘Ehkam-e-Shariat Bar Humzaban-e-League-e-Ahle Bid’at’. These publications provided a theological counter-narrative to the Two-Nation Theory, arguing for the preservation of a united India and challenging the ideological foundations of the Muslim League. Hashmat Ali Khan’s writings and speeches critically engaged with the Two-Nation Theory, emphasizing that Islam’s teachings supported coexistence and unity rather than division. His opposition extended beyond mere critique; it was a call for Muslims to reject divisive ideologies and uphold a vision of collective harmony within the Indian subcontinent. Legacy and Institutional Contributions In addition to his political activism, Hashmat Ali Khan’s scholarly contributions have left a lasting impact on Islamic jurisprudence and Barelvi thought. His notable works include ‘Fatawa Hashmatia’, a comprehensive collection of fatwas, and ‘Sawarim-ul-Hindiya’, which addresses theological disputes with the Deobandi movement. His legacy is also preserved through institutions such as Darul Uloom Hashmat-ur-Raza in Hashmat Nagar, Pilibhit, which continues to promote his educational and spiritual vision. Conclusion Muhammad Hashmat Ali Khan Qadri Lucknowi’s staunch opposition to the Two-Nation Theory highlights his commitment to Islamic unity and communal harmony. His role in advocating against the partition of India and his contributions to Islamic scholarship underscore his enduring influence in shaping the discourse on Islamic identity and political ideology. Hashmat Ali Khan’s legacy serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between religion, politics, and identity in South Asian history. ----- Syed Amjad Hussain is a Bihar-based Author and research scholar on Sufism. He is affiliated with the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, West Bengal. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/opposition-hashmat-ali-qadri-two-nation-theory/d/133038 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism