Definition
Jamaat-i Islami of India: The Indian branch of the Jamaat-i Islami, a socio-political and religious organization originally founded in British India. Post-partition, in 1947, its headquarters moved to Pakistan, retaining significant influence within the Indian Muslim minority through organized social welfare activities, a reputation for honesty, and its street-level activism.
Etymology
The term Jamaat-i Islami is derived from Arabic, combining ‘Jamaat’ (جمعات), meaning “group” or “assembly,” and ‘Islami’ (إسلامي), meaning “Islamic.” Therefore, the name translates to the “Islamic Group” or “Islamic Assembly.”
Background and Historical Facts
The Jamaat-i Islami was originally founded by Maulana Maududi in 1941 in British India with the aim of promoting Islamic values and principles in governance and daily life. Upon partition, the organization underwent bifurcation: one part relocated to Pakistan, maintaining political aspirations, while the Indian branch, led by Maulana Amin Ahsan Islahi, repositioned itself predominantly as a socio-religious entity, focusing on community welfare rather than active political participation.
Key Milestones
- 1941: Foundation in British India by Maulana Maududi.
- 1947: Partition of India and creation of the Indian branch.
- 1952: Official formation of Jamaat-i Islami Hind.
- 1976: Temporary ban during the emergency imposed by the Indian government (lifted in 1977).
Cultural Context
In India, due to the Muslim minority status, Jamaat-i Islami avoids direct electoral engagements but deeply influences public opinion through media, schools, and welfare institutions. Contrarily, in Pakistan and Bangladesh, Jamaat-i Islami actively participates in politics.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Jamaat-i Islami Hind: The formal name of the Indian branch.
- Muslim Brotherhood (Ikhwan): A similar organization in the Arab world.
- Tablighi Jamaat: Another prominent Islamic missionary organization focused on personal reformation.
Exciting Facts
- Jamaat-i Islami Hind runs a comprehensive educational network, including schools and colleges offering mainstream and religious education.
- It is known for its disciplined organizational structure and active social service during crises like natural disasters.
Quotations
“The Jamaat-i Islami stands as a beacon of integrity and social service, exemplary in its mission.” - Fictitious Notable Scholar, Iman Khan.
“Indeed, the influence of Jamaat-i Islami in shaping the welfare landscape of Indian Muslims is indisputable.” - Fictitious Historian, Razia Parveen.
Suggest Literature and Further Studies
- “Islamic Activism: A Social Movement Theory Approach” by Quintan Wiktorowicz
- “Islamic Political Movements and Authority in South Asia” by Alam Khan
- “Witnesses Unto Mankind: An Islamic Society’s Interpretation” by Islamic Research Institute
Translations
- Arabic: جماعة الإسلامية الهندية (Jamaat al-Islamiya al-Hindiya)
- Urdu: جماعتِ اسلامی ہند
- Bengali: জামায়াতে ইসলামি হিন্দ (Jamaat-e Islam-i Hind)
- Turkish: Hindistan İslam Cemaati
“Understanding the impact of social organizations such as Jamaat-i Islami on the cultural and political fabric is crucial for comprehending the broader dynamics of society.” - Ashraf Karim, 2023-10-04
