Written by Sabah Khan
Illustrated by Neelima P Aryan
Published by Parcham CollectiveThe Muslim stereotype is that of an anti-national, tyrannical men obsessed with religion and subjugated, voiceless women. This book challenges these notions, reminding us of radical contributions of Muslims in the making of India. Fatima Sheikh in the 1800s took on the task of teaching young girls, enduring violence for this radical act. Azizunnisa, a courtesan, trained women in martial arts to fight the British during the 1857 rebellion. Four generations of Begums of Bhopal brought radical reforms in administration of the State, water networks and the first steam locomotive to Bhopal. The freedom fighter, Maulana Hasrat Mohani, who gave us the slogan Inqualab Zindabad, wrote poetry in praise of Krishna, Ashfaqullah Khan, a poet and revolutionary, gave up his life for the freedom of the country. And many others like them feature in this book which we hope serves a reminder of a history that has been forgotten.
This is a stunning assembly of Muslim women and men to remind us of those figures whom we have all but forgotten today. Clearly this book is just a beginning and we look forward to more!Uma Chakravarti, Feminist Historian
In such a dark time it is an ardent duty of every writer to remind the younger generations that diversity is the bedrock on which tall sculpture of Indian-ness stands. This book celebrates the contribution of some extraordinary citizens who dedicated their lives to construct an independent-secular India.Gauhar Raza, Scientist, Poet and Filmmaker
