Gandhi Praised Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar as Role Models in His 1937 Newspaper
In the July 27, 1937 issue of his weekly journal Harijan, Mahatma Gandhi praised Islamic Caliphs Abu Bakar (RA) and Umar Farooq (RA) as examples of humble and responsible leadership.
In a rare reference to Islamic history, Mahatma Gandhi praised Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar Farooq as examples of simple and honest leadership.
He made this statement in the July 27, 1937 issue of his weekly journal, Harijan, offering advice to Indian National Congress leaders as they began to hold public office.
In that issue of Harijan, Gandhi wrote:
“I cannot give you the reference of Ram Chandar or Krishna, because they were not considered as historical figures. I cannot help it but to present to you the names of (Hazrat) Abu Bakar (RA) and (Hazrat) Umar Farooq (RA). They were leaders of a vast Empire, yet they lived a life of austerity.” Harijan – Dated: 27.07.1937
This statement came during an important moment in India’s history. In 1937, the Indian National Congress formed governments in several provinces for the first time under British rule, following elections held under the Government of India Act, 1935.
Gandhi, always cautious about the moral health of leaders, urged Congress members not to be consumed by power or luxury. He used the examples of Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar Farooq to remind them that true leaders live simply and serve the people.
Harijan was Gandhi’s weekly newspaper, launched in 1933 to support his social reform campaigns — especially against untouchability. The journal regularly featured Gandhi’s views on religion, politics, and ethics.
The journal was published in English, along with versions in Hindi (Harijan Sewak) and Gujarati (Harijanbandhu), and ran until 1955.
This was not the only time Gandhi showed appreciation for Islamic values. He often quoted the Quran, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in speeches and writings.
“Friendship” Festival - an important step towards developing public diplomacy and interethnic harmony
A press conference dedicated to the “Friendship” Festival, timed to the Day of Friendship of Peoples celebrated on July 30th, was held at the National Press Center of Uzbekistan, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was attended by the leadership of the Committee, representatives of national cultural centers, friendship societies, Brother Cities Alliance, as well as media representatives.
During the press conference, information was presented on the primary goals and objectives of the festival, as well as on the cultural, educational, scientific, practical and public events planned within its framework.
Special attention was paid to one of the key events of the festival — the First International Brother Cities Forum. It was noted that the forum will take place on July 24-25 in the ancient yet contemporary city of Samarkand. Around 100 foreign guests from nearly 30 states, including scholars, representatives of international organizations and other foreign participants, are expected to attend.
Press conference especially highlighted the significance of the festival as an important platform for strengthening interethnic harmony, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance and promoting public diplomacy in Uzbekistan.
It is worth recalling that by decision of the UN General Assembly, July 30 is designated as the Day of Friendship of Peoples. In this regard, this date is celebrated annually worldwide as International Day of Friendship.
