By:Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon

A few days ago, I read an article on digital dawah in one of the leading newspapers, written by a student pursuing a Master’s in Islamic Studies at Kashmir University. The article beautifully described the modern evolution of dawah. While my intention is not to critique, I felt compelled to reflect on the topic from a broader perspective. This reflection inspired me to explore the foundational principles of dawah, which form the bedrock of any successful outreach effort.

Aggressive Thinking: A Dangerous Weapon

Aggressive thinking, especially when met with peace, often stems from a negative mindset. Whether individual or collective, it is a reflection of weakness. Islam has no place for such thinking. When we resort to aggression as the final response, it signifies a failure to engage in meaningful dialogue and understanding. If we lack the knowledge and skill to communicate thoughtfully, we may fall back on ignorance, misrepresentation, or verbal violence—none of which lead to positive change.

I once engaged in a conversation with a gentleman who claimed that Allah would destroy the disbelievers. I objected, pointing out that such a statement was made without wisdom or understanding. I reminded him that, just a few centuries ago, our ancestors were also disbelievers, and it was through the dawah of others that we became Muslims. If the early callers to Islam had viewed us as “infidels” and rejected us, how would we, as Muslims today, have ever found the truth?

Allah, in His infinite wisdom, instructs Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to invite others to the path of righteousness with patience, wisdom, and beautiful words:
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good advice, and argue with them in a way that is most beautiful. Verily, your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path and who is rightly guided” (Surah An-Nahl 16:125).

The qualities of selfishness, narrow-mindedness, and hard-heartedness have no place in a society built on Islam’s values of kindness and compassion. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “I have been sent to perfect good manners.” This teaching underscores that Islam is not about rigidly proving others wrong; it’s about rising above the desire for personal victory and engaging with others in a manner that nurtures understanding, respect, and empathy.

In the Qur’an, over 6,000 verses speak to the importance of moral conduct—both positive and negative values are addressed throughout. The ethics of the Prophets and the righteous are fundamental in guiding our behavior. To be truly moral is not to retaliate under negative influences but to act with wisdom and kindness, regardless of the other party’s actions.

The Legacy of Shah Hamdan: A Model of Dawah

A powerful example of dawah in Kashmir is Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, also known as Shah Hamdani . He came to the subcontinent, particularly Kashmir, where he spread Islam for over seven centuries. Formerly the son of the King of Hamdan in Iran, he was known by the title of Amir Kabir. Among the famous mosques he built during his preaching is the renowned ‘Khankahi Moula,’ located on the banks of the Jhelum River, along with the Dargah Shah Hamdan in Srinagar. His personal character stood out in his preaching.

Shah Hamdani’s teachings were not focused on a glowing exterior or aggressive tactics, but rather on his integration of dawah with practical life. He promoted the flourishing of industries in Kashmir, such as carpet making and pashmina weaving, alongside religious preaching. The industrialization that occurred was not the real goal, but rather a means to facilitate dawah. His methods were grounded in a deep understanding of the people’s needs, making dawah relevant and embedded in their daily lives.

This approach sharply contrasts with the modern tendency to view dawah as an academic or ideological contest, where the goal becomes proving others wrong. Such a mindset harms not only dawah but also the well-being of the nation. Dawah must transcend personal vendettas and negative thinking—it is about creating an atmosphere of peace, understanding, and acceptance.

The core message of dawah is simple: we invite others to the path of truth not by condemning them, but by showing them the beauty and wisdom of Islam. As the poet says:

“Mita de apni hasti ko agar kuch martabah chahiye, ki danah khaak mai mil kar gulo gulzaar hota hai.”
Meaning: Erase your being if you want honor, for like a seed that mingles with the dust, it is through humility that the flower blooms. True honor and change come when we rise above ego and strive for the greater good.

You Are the Best of Nations: A Reflection on Quran 3:110

“You are the best of nations produced for mankind: You enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah.” (Quran 3:110)

This profound verse highlights the unique honor and responsibility bestowed upon the Muslim Ummah. It not only establishes the status of this nation but also defines its role as a moral and spiritual guide for humanity. The Muslim Ummah’s excellence is not a privilege but a responsibility. This divine designation aligns with the principles of dawah, urging Muslims to embody the core values of faith, morality, and unity. the status of the Muslim Ummah is eternal, grounded in its collective commitment to enjoining good, forbidding evil, and maintaining unwavering faith in Allah. This highlights the responsibility of Muslims to guide others with wisdom and righteousness, a key element of dawah.

The Role of Digital Platforms in Dawah

As we move into the digital age, technology has radically transformed how we approach dawah. Digital platforms have become indispensable tools for spreading the message of Islam. Social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram offer Muslims an unprecedented opportunity to connect with a global audience, share knowledge, answer questions, and address misconceptions about Islam. These platforms have removed geographical barriers, allowing dawah to reach every corner of the world.

However, with this power comes responsibility. Digital platforms can be powerful servants but dangerous masters. They can facilitate meaningful discussions, create awareness, and build understanding, but they also have the potential to spread misinformation, hatred, and divisiveness. It is crucial for us to use these platforms with caution and wisdom, ensuring that we uphold the values of Islam while engaging with the digital community.

The potential of digital dawah is vast, but we must remember that it is not the platform itself that carries the message; it is how we choose to use it. The real challenge lies in ensuring that the message remains true to the core values of Islam: wisdom, compassion, and respect. Digital tools should serve as bridges, not barriers.

The Importance of Unity

The unity of the Muslim Ummah holds a special place in Islam. Allah warns against straying from the collective path in the Quran:
“Whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has been made clear to him and follows a path other than that of the believers, We will turn him to what he has chosen and cast him into Hell.” (Quran 4:115)

Similarly, the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized:
“Allah’s mercy is with the congregation. Whoever separates from the group has gone astray.” (Tirmidhi)

This unity is foundational for the Ummah’s role as a guide for humanity. Through collective adherence to the principles of dawah, we embody the Qur’anic verse: “You are the best of nations.” Our unity as Muslims strengthens our ability to enjoin good and forbid evil, fulfilling our divine responsibility.

Tailpiece:

In conclusion, while digital dawah is a valuable tool for spreading the message of Islam, it is important to remember that technology itself is neutral. It is up to us to use it responsibly. The principles of dawah—wisdom, kindness, and sincerity—must guide our actions, whether in personal interactions or online spaces. As we continue to navigate the digital age, let us remain mindful of the power we wield and use it to spread the message of Islam with the same compassion, understanding, and wisdom that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified.

“To change the world, we need to combine Ancient Wisdom with new technologies.” — Paulo Coelho

Technology plays a climacteric role in our lives, making it pivotal for us to be aware of both its boons and banes.

About Author           
Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon Columnist, Motivational Speaker, and Associate Editor of Weekly ‘Education Quill’ Presently Working as Sr. EDP Head at SKIE Classes Khanyar/Soura branch. Instagram ID: Ubi9305 Email: akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com   9205000010

Bareen Hilal
Class :10Th
Skie Classes Khanyar

By: Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon

Since the dawn of civilization, signs have been a silent yet powerful force shaping human interaction. From ancient carvings on cave walls to the dynamic displays of modern cities, signs have evolved as a universal language that transcends barriers. They guide, inform, and inspire, acting as bridges between cultures, communities, and individuals. Beyond communication, signs have played a profound role in education, accessibility, and emotional expression—making them an enduring testament to humanity’s creativity and resilience. This journey of signs reveals their adaptability and significance, from ancient symbols to tools for learning and inclusion.

The Dawn of Signs: The earliest forms of signs were simple marks or symbols used for navigation or to communicate information. These signs, found in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, often took the form of pictographs or hieroglyphics. They served as a visual language, with symbols representing objects, animals, or natural elements, effectively bridging the gap between spoken language and written records. This early visual communication laid the foundation for more complex forms of signage.

Signs in Ancient Civilizations: As societies grew more complex, so did the need for communication. In ancient Greece and Rome, signs were commonly used in markets, public forums, and along roads. These civilizations introduced the concept of using signs to advertise goods, direct people, and inform the public of important announcements. Roman shops, for example, displayed pictorial signs to indicate the nature of their business, as literacy rates varied among the population.

The Influence of the Printing Press: The 15th-century invention of the printing press revolutionized how signs were created and distributed. Printed signs could now reach a much broader audience, and the development of typography allowed for clearer, more consistent messaging. This era also saw the emergence of public notices, posters, and early forms of billboards. The printing press enabled signs to become an essential part of political, cultural, and commercial communication, marking a pivotal moment in their evolution.

Calligraphy as a Sign of Emotions: Calligraphy, the art of beautiful writing, has played a significant role in the history of signs, particularly in conveying emotions and personal expression. Throughout history, different cultures have embraced calligraphy not just as a method of communication but as a way to infuse emotion and elegance into the written word. In regions like China, Japan, and the Islamic world, calligraphy became a revered art form, with its fluidity and stylistic flourishes capable of expressing the personality, mood, or emotion of the writer. The intricate strokes of Arabic and Chinese calligraphy, for example, turned simple signs into profound visual art, transcending mere functionality to evoke beauty and emotion.

Signs as a Lifeline for the Deaf and Mute: For individuals in the deaf and mute communities, signs are more than just tools for information—they are a vital form of language. Sign language has enabled millions to communicate in ways that transcend the barriers of speech. Much like early pictorial signs, modern sign language uses gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey complex thoughts and emotions. This visual language allows for rich communication that is understood universally within the community.

The development of formalized sign languages like American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) has given structure to this form of communication, allowing for educational progress and greater inclusion for those who are deaf or mute. Signage in public places, such as visual cues for emergency exits, alarms, and other important information, has also become crucial for making spaces accessible to everyone. In this sense, signs serve not only as a means of public communication but as an enabler of equality and accessibility for all.

Signs as Educational Tools in Early Childhood: In early childhood education, signs serve as an invaluable tool for helping children understand objects and concepts while boosting their memory retention. Young children often find visual symbols easier to comprehend than written or spoken words. By using signs, pictures, and symbols in classrooms, educators can help children make connections between objects and their meanings, laying a foundation for language development and cognitive growth.

For instance, using visual aids like picture cards or labeled images can enhance children’s ability to recognize shapes, letters, colors, and numbers. These signs not only aid in understanding but also help strengthen memory through repetition and association. By introducing symbols and signs early, children develop essential cognitive skills that prepare them for more advanced learning stages. In this way, signs act as building blocks for literacy, communication, and problem-solving in young minds.

Modern Signage: The industrial revolution and urbanization led to the explosion of signs in public spaces. As cities expanded, the need for clear and visible signage became paramount. The invention of electric lighting in the late 19th century paved the way for neon signs, which began illuminating urban landscapes across the world. By the 20th century, billboards, traffic signs, and commercial signage had become ubiquitous.

The digital revolution further transformed signs, introducing LED displays, electronic billboards, and interactive digital signage. Today, signs are not only functional but often double as works of art, merging aesthetics with practicality in public and commercial spaces. Signs in the modern world have evolved from static to dynamic, adapting to new technologies and allowing for real-time updates and interactive features.

From Calligraphy to Emojis: In recent times, communication through signs has taken a new form with the rise of digital platforms. Emojis, for example, serve as a modern-day extension of calligraphy, allowing individuals to express emotions through visual symbols. Just as calligraphy allowed writers to convey emotions through the style of their script, emojis offer a shorthand to express feelings, thoughts, and moods in a way that is universally understood. This transition from calligraphy to digital symbols underscores the enduring power of visual communication in human interaction.

Bottom line: From ancient pictographs to modern digital displays, signs have continuously evolved, adapting to the changing needs of society. For deaf and mute communities, signs hold an even deeper significance, serving as the cornerstone of language and interaction. Additionally, signs are invaluable in early childhood education, where they help children comprehend their surroundings and enhance memory development. Whether through the fluid elegance of calligraphy, the gestures of sign language, or the dynamic brilliance of LED screens, signs remain a vital tool for bridging gaps in understanding, connecting people, and reflecting the evolution of our collective experience.

About Author           
Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon Columnist, Motivational Speaker, and Associate Editor of Weekly ‘Education Quill’ Presently Working as Sr. EDP Head at SKIE Classes Khanyar/Soura branch. Instagram ID: Ubi9305 Email: akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com   9205000010

The time of year that John Keats called the ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’, autumn is a season famous for its harvest times, turning green leaves into vibrant colours of yellow, red and orange, cooling temperatures and darkening nights. Autumn in Kashmir, locally known as ‘Harud,’ transforms the valley into a vibrant canvas of red, orange, and yellow, attracting tourists to the Mughal gardens, hill stations and other health resorts of splendid charm. Poets, authors and other litterateurs have immensely praised the spring season of valley which brings newer and fresh life to dead and withered flora, gives hope to it’s inhabitants to start dreaming big and scaling high but Autumn is a season which too is glorious and wonderful. It is season of harvest in valley, farmers reap the produce of their diligently and tirelessly worked paddy and other crops, Orchardists start picking apples and other fruits to pack them and then to send them outside the valley so as to expect a good income. With the onset of autumn, vallities start thrashing of walnuts a highly nutritive dry fruit most probably in the month of August and September followed by the hulling of their green husk and then sundrying. This crop too enhances the economy of the region and gives farmers a global recognition as Kashmiri walnuts are world famous and supplied to each corner of the globe. Besides being the harvesting season, autumn in Kashmir has many reasons to be celebrated and entertained. When I recall my own memories of this season, I long for it’s early arrival. During my childhood I would wake up early in the dawn, offer prayers and venture out in search and collection of the walnuts which were falling down from the trees during night hours. After the conclusion of the season I would sell a huge collection to a village shopkeeper who would give me some hundred or two in return, which was a source of my excitement and bliss for next couple of months. Nowadays such early outings have been replaced by online and mobile gamings which has spoiled their childhood and snatched the natural pleasure of our future generation. This season would be the preparation time for our upcoming annual exams because till recent years the exams were held in the month of October or November. I would patiently wait for the sun to rise and study in the courtyard as the temperature and climate of the season best suited me. To perform better in the exams I would study till late night hours and in absence of electricity I remember, kerosene lamp aften came to my rescue. Each year a day before the commencement of the exams, I would purchase a high quality fountain pen from Bashir Ahmad Rangrez a famed grocery shopkeeper of Chowgam. A fortnight or a month after the conclusion of the exams was the period of playing and supports. I along with my rest of the classmates would play cricket from morning till afternoon in nearby field on the banks of River Vyethvetur because preparation and announcement of the results often took fifteen to thirty days and students were left to relax and enjoy the break period. Some of us would visit the relatives and spend the period there and enjoy to the fullest. After this results were to be ready followed by their announcement by the school authorities which prompted us to get ready for the next higher classes. It was a period of jubilation and ecstasy for we were to get promoted and had to buy new books. Our women folk would prepare charcoal by burning dry twigs and branches of the trees in their orchards which we used during upcoming winters to warm our trembling bodies due to bone chilling cold. Decades ago during autumn season, people whose houses had thatched roofs would replace the old woren hay with the fresh lot to make them withstand the harsh winter season. Parents would store the essential commodities and purchase the woolen and other warm clothings for their children to make an efficient winter preparation. The conical paddy bales in the open paddy fields were the palace of playing hide and seek by the little children which we currently seldom witness in the high-tech and tech savvy age of ours. Flying kites indigenously made by the children in these vast open lands were the sights of recreation and amusement. In our olden days, adults would listen to the cricket Commentry from the transistors as international cricketing events such as world Cup were held probably during autumn season of valley. However talking about the different rivulets and streams flowing through the rural areas, the murmuring and pleasing sounds of the gushing waters cease to give us tranquility as the water levels reach to the bottom of these water bodies. Children of the bygone era would also capture the insect cicadas, cage them in empty match-boxes to listen their natural music and free them only during dawn times. For this they were occasionally reprimanded and admonished by their parents. The sweet, mellifluous and melodious music of cicadas signals the arrival of autumn season in valley. The plain and vast safron meadows of Pampore start radiating purple colour due to appearance of Crocus flowers and farmers soon begin collecting the world’s famous and expensive spice. The nomadic Gujjar and Bakarwal people who enter valley in early summers to rear their cattle and other live stocks In high altitude green meadows start leaving back to other side of Pirpanchal range along with their flocks of sheep. The blazing amber colour of the Chinar leaves during the season has even prompted poet of the East Dr Iqbal to compose the famous couplet- Jis Khak ke zamir main ho Aatishi Chinar, Mumkin nahi kisi sard ho wo Khaki Arjimand. In today’s digital age, when every comfort and luxury is easily available to us, such natural pleasures, peace of mind and contentment becomes almost impossible to buy despite spending all accumulated wealth. Our new generation has deeply become addicted to mobile and other online games. Frequent and lengthy screen exposures has weakened their eyesight and they are turning couch potatoes. Instead of doing physical exercises and enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of the autumn season, they are focussing on spending hours while watching mobile phones and making Vlogs of no utility. So in order to get delighted by the autumn colours, we alongside our children must prioritize natural pleasure over artificial cheerfulness.

By Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi

It has been a month since Shri Ratan Tata Ji left us. From bustling cities and towns to villages, his absence is deeply felt across every segment of society. Seasoned industrialists, budding entrepreneurs and hardworking professionals mourn his loss. Those passionate about the environment and devoted to philanthropy are equally saddened. His absence has been deeply felt not only across the nation but also around the world.

For the youth, Shri Ratan Tata was an inspiration, a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing and that success can coexist with compassion as well as humility. For others, he represented the finest traditions of Indian enterprise and a steadfast commitment to the values of integrity, excellence and service. Under his leadership, the Tata Group ascended to new heights, embodying respect, honesty and credibility worldwide. Despite this, he wore his achievements lightly, with humility and kindness.

Shri Ratan Tata’s unwavering support for the dreams of others was one of his most defining qualities. In recent years, he became known for mentoring India’s StartUp ecosystem, investing in many promising ventures. He understood the hopes and aspirations of young entrepreneurs and recognised the potential they had to shape India’s future. By backing their efforts, he empowered a generation of dreamers to take bold risks and push boundaries. This has gone a long way in creating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, which I am confident will continue to positively impact India for decades to come.

He constantly championed excellence, urging Indian enterprises to set global benchmarks. This vision, I hope, will inspire our future leaders to make India synonymous with world-class quality.

His greatness was not restricted to the boardroom or helping fellow humans. His compassion extended to all living beings. His deep love for animals was well-known and he supported every possible effort focused on animal welfare. He often shared photos of his dogs, who were as much a part of his life as any business venture. His life was a reminder to us all that true leadership is measured not just by one’s achievements, but by one’s ability to care for the most vulnerable.

For crores of Indians, Shri Ratan Tata’s patriotism shone brightest in times of crisis. His swift reopening of the iconic Taj Hotel in Mumbai after the 26/11 terror attacks was a rallying call to the nation—India stands united, refusing to yield to terrorism.

On a personal note, I had the privilege of knowing him very closely over the years. We worked closely in Gujarat, where he invested extensively, including in many of the projects he was very passionate about. Just a few weeks ago, I was in Vadodara with the President of the Government of Spain, Mr. Pedro Sánchez and we jointly inaugurated an aircraft complex where C-295 aircrafts would be made in India. It was Shri Ratan Tata who started working on this. Needless to say, Shri Ratan Tata’s presence was greatly missed.

I remember Shri Ratan Tata Ji as a man of letters—he would frequently write to me on various issues, be it matters of governance, expressing appreciation for government support, or sending congratulatory wishes after electoral victories.

Our close interactions continued when I moved to the Centre and he remained a committed partner in our nation-building efforts. Shri Ratan Tata’s support for the Swachh Bharat Mission was particularly close to my heart. He was a vocal advocate of this mass movement, understanding that cleanliness, hygiene and sanitation are vital for India’s progress. I still remember his heartfelt video message for the Swachh Bharat Mission’s tenth anniversary at the start of October. It was among his final public appearances.

Another cause close to his heart was healthcare and especially the fight against cancer. I recall the programme in Assam two years ago, where we had jointly inaugurated various cancer hospitals in the state. In his remarks that time, he had categorically stated that he wishes to dedicate his final years to healthcare. His efforts to make health and cancer care accessible and affordable were rooted in a profound empathy for those battling diseases, believing that a just society was one that stood by its most vulnerable.

As we remember him today, we are reminded of the society he envisioned—where business can serve as a force for good, where every individual’s potential is valued and where progress is measured in the well-being and happiness of all. He remains alive in the lives he touched and the dreams he nurtured. Generations will be grateful to him for making India a better, kinder and more hopeful place.

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