Mangaluru: Muslims ruled this country for 600 years. They died here too. So they did not loot. If 24% of Hindus in this country are backward, 38% of Muslims are economically backward. If they had looted, they should have been richer than Hindus. Muslims should be active in writing to tell this bitter truth to the world,” said Dr. Purushottama Bilimale, a retired professor from JNU.
He was speaking at the release of the poetry collection ‘Avala Kaalu Soladirali’ by poet Fatima Raliya published by Udgore Prakashana at the Sahodaya Sabha Bhavan of St Aloysius College.
Muslims have sacrificed the most lives for the freedom of the country. But today that truth is being hidden. When Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi was hanged, Habiba of Muzaffarnagar was also hanged. Asgari Begum was also burnt to death. But in Uttar Pradesh, the memories of the freedom struggle are being erased.
Storyteller Sudha Adukula introduced the work. Poet Fatima Raliya spoke the introductory words. Writer Umairah Kumer welcomed. Poet Wilson Kateel was the chief guest, journalist Muad GM recited a poem. H.M. Fernal compered the program.
