Thanks
to the polarization politics on an unprecedented scale, stereotyping of
minorities has done immense harm to the country’s image as a liberal,
democratic, secular and pluralistic polity. This has sent the invaluable
contributions and roles of these communities into the oblivion. Perhaps India’s
Muslim women have suffered the most on this count. We need to understand that
these ladies were never dumb dolls packaged in burkas and hijabs sentenced to
lifelong drudgery behind the four walls of their homes. Instead, there have
always been spirited ladies who successfully challenged the orthodoxy, and
overcome the prejudices generated by today’s polarizing politics, to become
role models for generations of young women. I intentionally say “young women”
and not “young Muslim women” because every community in India has been guilty
of oppressing their women-folks. But we shall now focus on India’s Muslim
women.
The
nation needs to be reminded of the contributions made by Muslim women in
different fields – right from India’s independence movement to sports, cinema,
science and technology and education. I shall recount here the achievements of
some of these women. They have produced not just stars but superstars in
sports. Their achievements highlight the diversity and talent within the Indian
Muslim community and serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the
country.
1.
Razia Sheikh: was
the first Indian woman to cross the barrier of 50 metres in javelin throw, at
the 1987 South Asian Games. She represented India at two editions of the
Asian Games (Delhi, 1982 & Seoul, 1986). Razia broke the 21-year-old
national record in 1986 with a throw of 47.70 metres at the Playmakers’
athletics meet in Delhi. She won the gold medal in the 1987 South Asian Games
in Kolkata with a 50.38 metres throw, setting a new Games and national record.
2.
Sania Mirza: is
one of India’s most successful tennis players. She is the first Indian woman to
reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament. Sania has also been ranked
as high as No. 1 in the women’s doubles rankings and has won several Grand Slam
titles in doubles events.
3.
Salima Tete: is
a rising star in women’s field hockey. She has represented India at various
international tournaments, including the Hockey Junior World Cup.
4.
Nikhat Zareen: is
a two times world champion in boxing. She has also won a gold medal at the 2011
World Youth Boxing Championships and a silver medal at the 2013 Asian Women’s
Boxing Championships. Zareen has also represented India in the Asian Games and
has secured medals in multiple championships.
5.
Syeda Falak:
won gold in the fourth International Karate Championship in the senior female
category in Kathmandu. Falak was also awarded the ‘Best Female Fighter’ title. Her
major achievements include gold medal in the International Open Championship in
Kolkata, besides finishing third in the WKF Series in Istanbul, Turkey, and
being three-time gold medalist in the nationals in 68-plus category.
6.
Alfia Khan Pathan: is
the first-ever Maharashtra woman boxer to win a medal, and that too gold, at
the ASBC Asian Elite Boxing Championships in the 81 plus category. She started
off as Under 16 Champion at the State Boxing Championships held at Aurangabad.
Alfia won medals, including the World Youth Boxing Championships in 2021.
Muslim
women have been second to none as freedom fighters during India’s struggle for
freedom. Here are some inspiring examples.
1.
Begum Hazrat Mahal: was
a prominent figure during the 1857 war of Independence. She was the wife of
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh and led the resistance against the British East
India Company in Lucknow. She played a crucial role in uniting the freedom
fighters and resisting the British rule.
2.
Bi Amma:
also known as Abbakka Chowta, was a warrior queen and freedom fighter from the
16th century. She hailed from the Chowta dynasty in Karnataka and fought
against Portuguese colonizers. She is known for her valiant efforts in defending
her kingdom and the region’s independence.
3.
Aruna Asaf Ali:
born a Hindu, she married a Muslim. She was a prominent freedom fighter and a
political activist during the Indian independence movement. Aruna actively took
part in the Civil Disobedience Movement. She hoisted the Indian National
Congress flag during the Quit India Movement in 1942 when it was banned by the
British authorities.
4.
Fatima Sheikh:
was a social reformer and freedom fighter who worked for women’s rights and
social justice. She actively took part in the Satyagraha movement and
supported causes like women’s education and empowerment. She also co-founded
the Indian National Congress in Bombay and was a member of the All India Women’s
Conference.
Today
we have Muslim women in politics, science and education. Here are three
examples.
1.
Dr. Najma Akhtar: is
an esteemed educationist and scientist. She served as the Vice-Chancellor of
Jamia Millia Islamia, a central university in Delhi, and has a background in
chemistry. Dr. Akhtar has been actively involved in research and has published
several papers in chemistry and environmental science.
2.
Dr. Najma Heptulla: is
a veteran politician and a former Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. She
has also served as the Minister of Minority Affairs in the Indian government
and has played a vital role in addressing issues related to the welfare and
development of minority communities.
3.
Mehbooba Mufti: is
a prominent politician. She is the first and, so far, the only woman to hold the
position of Jammu & Kashmir’s Chief Minister. Mufti has played a crucial
role in regional politics and has been actively involved in advocating for the
rights and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Muslim
women have excelled in intellectual and literary activities too. They have
enriched Indian literature, art, and intellectual discourse. Their works have
made lasting impressions, challenged societal norms, and contributed to the
rich cultural tapestry of India. Here are some prominent Indian Muslim women
intellectuals and litterateurs who have made significant contributions to their
fields:
1.
Ismat Chughtai:
was a renowned Urdu writer and feminist. She is known for her bold and
thought-provoking writings that challenged social norms and highlighted issues
of gender inequality and women’s rights. Chughtai’s works, including “Lihaaf”,
have had a profound impact on feminist discourse in India.
2.
Attia Hosain:
was a distinguished Indian writer and broadcaster. Her notable work, “Sunlight
on a Broken Column,” is a critically acclaimed novel that explores themes of
identity, freedom, and the challenges faced by Muslim women in India during the
pre-and-post-partition era. Hosain’s writing reflected her deep understanding
of social and political dynamics.
3.
Qurratulain Hyder:
was a highly regarded Urdu novelist and short story writer. Her magnum opus, “Aag
ka Darya”, is considered a masterpiece of Indian literature. Hyder’s writings
combined history, philosophy, and social commentary, capturing the essence of
India’s multicultural heritage.
4.
Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain:
was a pioneering Bengali feminist writer and social reformer. She advocated
women’s rights and education and is best known for her seminal work, “Sultana’s
Dream,” a science fiction novella that depicted a gender-reversed world.
Hossain’s writings challenged prevailing gender norms and inspired generations
of women in the fight for equality.
5.
Gauhar Jaan:
was a renowned Indian classical musician and one of the first recording artists
in the country. She was a gifted singer and performer, known for her expertise
in various classical music styles. Her contribution to Indian classical music
continues to be celebrated, and she remains an iconic figure in the history of
Indian music.
When
it comes to our cinema, Indian Muslim women have certainly been at the
forefront in its every aspect – right from singing, acting to writing and
directing. Through their exceptional talent, versatility, and dedication, they
have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring future generations and
breaking barriers. Here are some notable contributors:
1.
Fatima Begum:
was a pioneering figure in Indian cinema and is considered the first female
film director in the country. She directed and acted in several silent films in
the early 1900s, breaking barriers and paving the way for women in the
industry.
2.
Zubeida Begum:
was a prominent actress in the early years of Indian cinema. She starred in
several successful films in the 1930s and 1940s and was known for her
versatility and captivating performances.
3.
Suraiya: was
the last singer actor of substance in cinema, and a superstar in her own right.
She was the highest paid artiste of her time. Her career began as a child
artiste and became a legend in her lifetime.
4.
Meena Kumari:
often referred to as the “Tragedy Queen,” was one of the most celebrated
actresses in Indian cinema. Her powerful performances in films like “Pakeezah”
and “Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam” earned her critical acclaim and established her as
a legendary figure in the industry.
5.
Shabana Azmi: is
an accomplished actress known for her powerful and nuanced performances. She
has worked in many critically acclaimed films and has received several awards,
including several National Film Awards and the prestigious Padma Shri and Padma
Bhushan awards.
6.
Nargis Dutt:
was a prominent actress and one of the leading stars of Indian cinema in the
1940s and 1950s. She appeared in iconic films such as “Mother India” and is
remembered for her remarkable performances and on-screen presence.
7.
Tabu: is a highly
acclaimed actress who has worked in both mainstream and independent cinema. She
has received critical acclaim for her versatile roles in films like “Maachis,” “Chandni
Bar,” and “Haider.” Tabu’s performances have consistently garnered appreciation
for their depth and authenticity.
8.
Zoya Akhtar: is
a talented filmmaker who has directed critically acclaimed films like “Zindagi
Na Milegi Dobara” and “Gully Boy.” She is known for her storytelling talent,
capturing diverse narratives, and pushing boundaries with her filmmaking style.
The
accomplishments of India’s Muslim women have shattered stereotypes and serve as
an inspiration to others, highlighting the talent and determination of Indian
Muslim women in various fields. These achievers have played pivotal roles in
the development and progress of the nation. Hijab or no hijab, they are
determined to stay mainstream. We are proud of these daughters of India.
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