Institute for Islamic and Cross-Cultural Studies Launched to Strengthen Dialogue and Harmony Across Bharat
New Delhi, : The Institute for Islamic and Cross-Cultural Studies (IICS) was launched in Imam House, New Delhi with the objective of promoting cross-cultural dialogue, mutual understanding and social harmony across the country.
The organisation was formally announced during a gathering hosted at Imam House, New Delhi with the participation of people from different religious and social communities. The gathering was held in the presence of Chief Imam Dr. Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, Chief Imam, All India Imam Organization.
Speaking on the Launching Ceremony, Dr Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi said that Islam gives a strong message of peace, compassion and coexistence and that dialogue among communities is essential for building a stronger society.
“Islam is a peaceful religion which teaches compassion, respect and harmony. We must come together, understand one another and work for the betterment of our nation. Cross-cultural dialogue can become an important bridge between communities and strengthen the spirit of Bharat,” he said.
Prof. Jasim Mohammad, who was associated with the initiative, said that Bharat’s strength lies in its diversity and that the country can progress further when people from different backgrounds work together.
“Bharat has always been a land of diverse cultures, languages, traditions and ideas. If we want to make Bharat great, we have to understand each other, respect our differences and work together for the larger national interest,” Prof. Jasim Mohammad said.
Trustee IICS Dr Dinesh Dubey said the Institute for Islamic and Cross-Cultural Studies will work throughout the nation to create platforms for meaningful cross-cultural interaction, research, dialogue and educational activities. The organisation will seek to connect scholars, intellectuals, community representatives, students and young people from different parts of the country.
“If we want to make Bharat stronger and greater, our young people must learn the value of dialogue, respect and cooperation. Cross-cultural programmes can provide them with a constructive platform to interact and learn from one another,” Dr Dinesh Dubey said.
IICS Trustee Jawaid Rahmani said that India’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division.
“The future of Bharat depends on our ability to live together with mutual respect. Cross-cultural engagement gives people an opportunity to know each other’s traditions and perspectives and removes misunderstandings,” Jawaid Rahmani said.
Adv Nadeem Waris Khan at the gathering also emphasised the importance of involving the younger generation in such initiatives.
The IICS is expected to undertake programmes across different parts of India, including seminars, conferences, research initiatives, cultural exchanges, lectures and youth-oriented activities focused on cross-cultural understanding.
The gathering concluded with an emphasis on strengthening the spirit of harmony, togetherness and national unity, with participants expressing the need for greater dialogue and cooperation among India’s diverse communities.