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.
Japan hosts presentation of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan
Embassy of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the Center, organized Japan’s first large-scale presentation of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan in Tokyo, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was attended by representatives of Japanese educational and cultural institutions, private companies, tourism organizations, diplomats from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, researchers, media representatives, as well as Uzbek compatriots and students residing in Japan.
During the presentation, it was highlighted that the Center of Islamic Civilization, established at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, will serve as an international platform for studying Islamic enlightenment, science, and culture, as well as for fostering dialogue among civilizations.
Event showcased comprehensive materials on the rich historical and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, the foundational contributions of great scholars such as Imam al-Bukhari, Imam al-Tirmidhi and Imam al-Maturidi to the development of Islamic jurisprudence and science, as well as the significant role of Amir Temur and the Temurid dynasty in world history.
Professor Tursunali Kuziev, Advisor to the Director of the Center, delivered a keynote address entitled “Toward the future through enlightenment”, detailing the significance of preserving cultural heritage, restoring historical memory and strengthening international dialogue.
Professor Manabu Shimizu of the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE-JETRO) in Japan underscored the importance of Uzbekistan's Third Renaissance concept and the advancement of cooperation among diverse civilizations, including Japan.
Within the framework of the event, a promotional documentary on the Center of Islamic Civilization was screened, alongside video presentations on Uzbekistan's prominent scholars and a photographic exhibition dedicated to the country's cultural heritage and architectural monuments.
