Veteran actor-director Sanjay Khan has always espoused the cause of inter-faith harmony and national integration through his works. In his second book, Assalamualaikum Watan, published by Finger Print, Khan goes into the past to outline the contribution of the Muslim community in nation-building.
He also proposes to set up Indian-Muslim Socio-Economic Trust, which will redeem and re-establish respect within the community by providing tangible services, resources and developmental opportunities in various sectors like education, IT, banking and so on. Khan tells us more:
Can you tell us about the premise of your book? Also, what role will the Indian-Muslim Socio-Economic Trust play?
A: Muslims in India represent a population of 200 million individuals who profoundly contribute to the cultural vitality and demographic vibrancy of the country. This number represents the second-largest critical mass of Muslims in any nation in the world.
First and foremost, as Indian-Muslims, we should feel tremendous pride, a sense of empowerment and responsibility in this fact, because we serve as the trajectory to the compass of achievement for all Muslims in the world. The age-old saying of ‘safety in numbers’ is only partially true, there is also an ‘inspiration in numbers’. As I have explained (in the book), Muslims have selflessly contributed an immense amount to India, from the standpoint of art, architecture, science, technology, and governance, making India the wealthiest country in the world. These timeless, priceless, and permanent contributions make India just as much ours as anyone else’s. Assalamualaikum Watan is about reclaiming the spirit of the soil to serve the nation.
The Indian-Muslim Socio-Economic Trust (IMSET) will be a non-profit organisation functioning via technology in the form of a digital application. A trained team of youngsters with complete knowledge and functioning of the digital app will guide it. An expert committee will monitor this team for the community who will offer their services. It will engage pre-eminently successful Muslims in their respective fields of expertise from each Indian state.
The IMSET app will be defined by a collaborative spirit and genuine empathy, as all the members will be invited to serve based on their seminal achievements and genetic inclination for volunteerism and social responsibility via video webinar, online meetings, trainings and support. These positions will be highly prestigious, not due to the traditional business perks of compensation, rather due to the proximity of substantially impactful work.
The organisations’ operating budget will invite like-minded people to participate in this noble venture. There are many anxiously waiting to participate. It will be inappropriate to mention any names at this time. We cannot proceed with our plans currently because of COVID-19 in which India and the entire world is embroiled in.
You have cited history, poetry, politics and economics in your book. When did you start researching and writing? Can you also tell us about the subjects that you find interesting?
A: The research was quite intense and detailed to obtain this enormous, accurate and authentic information. It took us almost seven years of earnest work. History, poetry, politics and economics are my favoured subjects. The message on the importance of education and slices of Indian history as information and inspirational factors are to keep India united and strong.
Is it important for an artist to take a stand? Can you tell us about the relationship between arts/ society and politics?
A: Why only an artist, any principled, educated altruistic person must be fair without fear or favour to express his views on any topic of discussion. Arts, society and politics are analogous to each other. A politician will express himself through poetry in Parliament. Society plays its own social politics. Arts/ society and politics are common inspirational factors.
Can you also share your thoughts on the role of religion in society? Who is a true believer?
A: Religion is a critical element in any person’s private and social life. Mixing religion with politics is dangerous; it ruptures society and weakens the very fabric of a nation; it directly challenges the Constitution of India. In a multi-religious society like India, it should not be used as a political tool. A true believer will always love his neighbour.
What are your thoughts on Shaheen Bagh women’s role in anti-CAA movement?
A: It was a dazzling chess move. It’s not for me to elaborate, it’s for people to assess and understand it.