Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama Launches Centenary Celebrations in Kasaragod
The historic centenary conference of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, a prominent Islamic scholarly body, officially began on Wednesday at Kuniya in Kasaragod district. The inauguration ceremony was held at Varakkal Mullakoya Thangal Nagar, marking a significant milestone for the organization that has played a pivotal role in Kerala's religious and social landscape for a century.
Inauguration and Flag Hoisting Ceremony
The event was inaugurated by Panakkad Sadikkali Thangal, the state president of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), who delivered a powerful address highlighting the organization's enduring legacy. Earlier in the day, Samastha president Syed Mohammed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal hoisted the flag to signal the start of the centenary celebrations, which are being conducted under the theme 'Adarsha Vishuddhi Noottandukalilude', translating to 'Purity of ideology throughout centuries'. Following this, an additional 99 flags were raised by various leaders of the Samastha, symbolizing the widespread reach and influence of the organization.
Emphasis on Knowledge, Faith, and Unity
In his inaugural speech, Sadikali Thangal reflected on the Samastha's century-long journey, describing it as a pillar of guidance and support for a community that has often faced uncertainties about its direction. He emphasized that the organization's success and resilience over the decades were not achieved through force but through the power of knowledge and faith. Thangal praised the Samastha for its crucial role in fostering communal harmony in Kerala, positioning the state as a model of peaceful coexistence. He urged for greater unity within the community, pointing out that there are far more compelling reasons to come together than to allow divisions to take root.
Looking ahead, Thangal expressed confidence that the Samastha would continue to guide future generations, who will navigate a world undergoing transformations even more profound than today's scientific and technological advances. He assured that the organization would help them remain grounded in faith and build the necessary resistance to face emerging challenges.
Call to Strengthen Ideological Foundations
In his presidential address, Jifri Thangal called for concerted efforts to resist forces that oppose Sunni ideology and to strengthen the ideological foundations of the community. He underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the core values that have sustained the Samastha over the past hundred years.
Upcoming Mega Public Meeting and Celebratory Events
The centenary celebrations will culminate in a mega public meeting on Sunday, which will be inaugurated by Dr. Salama Jum‘a Dawood, the Rector of Egypt's prestigious Al-Azhar University. Jifri Thangal will preside over this session, expected to draw large crowds and feature significant discussions on Islamic scholarship and community welfare.
As part of the extensive centenary festivities, several events have been organized to engage diverse audiences. These include:
- A global expo showcasing Islamic culture and achievements.
- A dedicated camp for preachers focused on spiritual training.
- A general camp offering lessons on both spiritual and material aspects of life.
- A global ulama summit featuring internationally renowned scholars.
- A campus conclave aimed at engaging with students.
- A Gen Z summit to connect with younger generations.
- A leadership camp to nurture future community leaders.
- A media seminar to discuss the role of media in society.
- Socio-cultural interaction programs to foster dialogue and understanding.
These activities highlight the Samastha's commitment to education, community building, and intergenerational dialogue as it steps into its next century of service.
