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Born A Muslim: Some Truths About Islam in India
Who are the Indian Muslims?
Are they a monolithic community practicing a faith alien to India? Or are they a diverse people, geographically rooted in the cultural ethos of the land? Is there an ‘Indian Islam’, a religion that grew out of Arabia but was nurtured in India and influenced by local traditions and customs? Has the power of Islam declined over the centuries because the faithful have forgotten the spirit of the religion, and are sticking to dogma and rigid rules instead? Born a Muslim: Some Truths about Islam in India attempts to answer these questions by taking a hard look at how the world’s second largest religion is practiced in the country.
The book tracks the history of the religion from its revelation in Arabia in the seventh century to its spread through many parts of the world. It arrived in India by multiple routes—in the south, in the eighth and ninth centuries CE, with traders from Arabia, and in the north, in the tenth and eleventh centuries, with invaders, rulers, and mystics, largely from Central Asia. Once it was established in India, it morphed and evolved through the centuries until it took on the distinctive contours of the religion that is practiced here at present.
The author takes a clear-eyed look at every aspect of Islam in India today. She examines the factors that have stalled the socio-economic and intellectual growth of Indian Muslims and attributes both internal factors—such as a disproportionate reliance on the ulema—as well as external ones that have contributed to the backwardness of the community. She shows at length, and with great empathy and understanding, what it is like to live as a Muslim in India and offers suggestions on how their lot might be improved. Weaving together personal memoir, history, reportage, scholarship, and interviews with a wide variety of people, the author highlights how an apathetic and sometimes hostile government attitude and prejudice at all levels of society have contributed to Muslim vulnerability and insecurity.
Born a Muslim goes beyond stereotypes and news headlines to present an extraordinarily compelling and illuminating portrait of one of the largest and most diverse communities in India.
Are they a monolithic community practicing a faith alien to India? Or are they a diverse people, geographically rooted in the cultural ethos of the land? Is there an ‘Indian Islam’, a religion that grew out of Arabia but was nurtured in India and influenced by local traditions and customs? Has the power of Islam declined over the centuries because the faithful have forgotten the spirit of the religion, and are sticking to dogma and rigid rules instead? Born a Muslim: Some Truths about Islam in India attempts to answer these questions by taking a hard look at how the world’s second largest religion is practiced in the country.
The book tracks the history of the religion from its revelation in Arabia in the seventh century to its spread through many parts of the world. It arrived in India by multiple routes—in the south, in the eighth and ninth centuries CE, with traders from Arabia, and in the north, in the tenth and eleventh centuries, with invaders, rulers, and mystics, largely from Central Asia. Once it was established in India, it morphed and evolved through the centuries until it took on the distinctive contours of the religion that is practiced here at present.
The author takes a clear-eyed look at every aspect of Islam in India today. She examines the factors that have stalled the socio-economic and intellectual growth of Indian Muslims and attributes both internal factors—such as a disproportionate reliance on the ulema—as well as external ones that have contributed to the backwardness of the community. She shows at length, and with great empathy and understanding, what it is like to live as a Muslim in India and offers suggestions on how their lot might be improved. Weaving together personal memoir, history, reportage, scholarship, and interviews with a wide variety of people, the author highlights how an apathetic and sometimes hostile government attitude and prejudice at all levels of society have contributed to Muslim vulnerability and insecurity.
Born a Muslim goes beyond stereotypes and news headlines to present an extraordinarily compelling and illuminating portrait of one of the largest and most diverse communities in India.
408 pages, Hardcover
Published March 1, 2021
53 people are currently reading
751 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 16, 2021
Amit Varma's 'The Seen and The Unseen' podcast episode with the author starts with him saying "I can never know what it means to be a Muslim in India the way I can never know what it means to be a woman". This book helped me take a glimpse at the history, the fears and hopes of a community that has faced hardships which I can never completely grasp.
Religion has increasingly become a centerpiece of Indian political and private discourse, and Wahab masterfully addresses both spheres. The book starts off with a brief history of Muslims in India until the 1857 uprising. She then goes back in time to the history of Islam and clarifies the context in which various Quranic verses were revealed.
The chapter on insecurities of Muslims and minority politics were chilling eye-openers. In these, Wahab chronicles riots in every decade and their impact on Hindu-Muslim relations. She then explains how Muslim leaders focused on issues of religious identity that didn't echo with the Muslim electorate and were unable to uplift their socio-economic status. In the final chapters, Wahab focuses on the private sphere. She examines what Islam says about women and argues that current practices arise out of both misinterpretations due to the 'patriarchal male mindset of the time' and 'problematic interpretations'. The book concludes with some recommendations for the way forward.
Different people have different views in even approaching the topic of religion, leave alone religious views. But I highly recommend this book to every Indian because like it or not, you can't escape understanding religion if you want to understand India. And I haven't come across a a more accessible starting point than this book for Islam and Muslims in India.
Religion has increasingly become a centerpiece of Indian political and private discourse, and Wahab masterfully addresses both spheres. The book starts off with a brief history of Muslims in India until the 1857 uprising. She then goes back in time to the history of Islam and clarifies the context in which various Quranic verses were revealed.
The chapter on insecurities of Muslims and minority politics were chilling eye-openers. In these, Wahab chronicles riots in every decade and their impact on Hindu-Muslim relations. She then explains how Muslim leaders focused on issues of religious identity that didn't echo with the Muslim electorate and were unable to uplift their socio-economic status. In the final chapters, Wahab focuses on the private sphere. She examines what Islam says about women and argues that current practices arise out of both misinterpretations due to the 'patriarchal male mindset of the time' and 'problematic interpretations'. The book concludes with some recommendations for the way forward.
Different people have different views in even approaching the topic of religion, leave alone religious views. But I highly recommend this book to every Indian because like it or not, you can't escape understanding religion if you want to understand India. And I haven't come across a a more accessible starting point than this book for Islam and Muslims in India.
April 2, 2021
• r e v i e w •
Ghazala Wahab connects with the readers, that much is proven. Her words are clear, without a hint of hesitancy as she speaks about how the second largest religion has evolved over the years in India. At a time when Islam and it's practitioners are looked upon with suspicion and hostility, this book couldn't have come at a better time. To someone who practices a different faith, this book makes it easy to understand Islam right from its origin. Ghazala Wahab has done extensive research and it shows, with the statistics presented in a clear-cut manner. She provides numbers to back up her facts. There's a lot to take away from this informative book, capable enough to shift one's opinion about this largely followed religion.
The book begins with her reminiscing about her grandfather whom she fondly refers to as Abba. Growing up in a liberal Muslim family, the children weren't burdened with strict religious education but things changed after Abba's death. She recalls with terror the threat they faced during kar seva as Hindu fanatics threw stones into her home and broke the windows. Her uncles were then taken away by the notorious Provincial Armed Constabulary, the same forces who had performed the mass custodial killing. I particularly liked how she decided on speaking about Prophet Muhammad's life, his ideals and also about his wife. As you turn the pages, things begin to get a little intense. History has proven time and again that Religion and politics do not mix well together. Things get muddled, people turn into fanatics. As with any religion, if one follows the text and teachings blindly, generations of development is pushed behind. Ghazala encourages people to get formal education apart from the religious ones, to strike a balance between the two. There are chapters dedicated to women and then politics, both of which were interesting to read. She makes it personal with added tales from her own life, making her one amongst us. Born a Muslim is an important book, one that can even erase the stereotypes that people associate with Islam. It removes any false notions, making way for kindness.
4.1/5.
Thank you for the copy @alephbookco
Ghazala Wahab connects with the readers, that much is proven. Her words are clear, without a hint of hesitancy as she speaks about how the second largest religion has evolved over the years in India. At a time when Islam and it's practitioners are looked upon with suspicion and hostility, this book couldn't have come at a better time. To someone who practices a different faith, this book makes it easy to understand Islam right from its origin. Ghazala Wahab has done extensive research and it shows, with the statistics presented in a clear-cut manner. She provides numbers to back up her facts. There's a lot to take away from this informative book, capable enough to shift one's opinion about this largely followed religion.
The book begins with her reminiscing about her grandfather whom she fondly refers to as Abba. Growing up in a liberal Muslim family, the children weren't burdened with strict religious education but things changed after Abba's death. She recalls with terror the threat they faced during kar seva as Hindu fanatics threw stones into her home and broke the windows. Her uncles were then taken away by the notorious Provincial Armed Constabulary, the same forces who had performed the mass custodial killing. I particularly liked how she decided on speaking about Prophet Muhammad's life, his ideals and also about his wife. As you turn the pages, things begin to get a little intense. History has proven time and again that Religion and politics do not mix well together. Things get muddled, people turn into fanatics. As with any religion, if one follows the text and teachings blindly, generations of development is pushed behind. Ghazala encourages people to get formal education apart from the religious ones, to strike a balance between the two. There are chapters dedicated to women and then politics, both of which were interesting to read. She makes it personal with added tales from her own life, making her one amongst us. Born a Muslim is an important book, one that can even erase the stereotypes that people associate with Islam. It removes any false notions, making way for kindness.
4.1/5.
Thank you for the copy @alephbookco
September 10, 2021
A hotch-potch of history, some personal reminiscence, and a lot of disjointed commentary... expected much more and was disappointed.
January 9, 2022
I would recommend this book to anyone who is trying to understand a very middle class Indian household perspective/life of a muslim, from a very day to day, simplistic lens. This book literally sits with you and tell you what makes a Muslim of today, to me, it felt like my story, and I can say this with somewhat confidence that it is the story of any other Muslim who I know, it sure seemed like mine. When she quotes her upbringing, the joint family set up, the small customs that are so deeply woven into the lives of Muslims, and cannot be described to somebody of another faith, because they are so obvious to us.
Lately, I have been recommending this by the dozen; especially because it gives you this window in the Muslim world, the fears and hopes, the upbringing and big and small traditions that are so very intricate to our being, and the ones that we don't necessarily talk about, it's amazing how she articulated things we only have experienced, which we cannot put in words but are essential to know in order to understand the culture and the fears better. The book is all-encompassing view of the muslim world, it goes back in the history of Islam and sets the context on how Quran was revealed. the origin of Islam and various practises, and also the political side of things.
The gaps within and between the community are age old, but this is the first time, I thought what I can call my point of view, was so well put across. 10/10 on everything.
Lately, I have been recommending this by the dozen; especially because it gives you this window in the Muslim world, the fears and hopes, the upbringing and big and small traditions that are so very intricate to our being, and the ones that we don't necessarily talk about, it's amazing how she articulated things we only have experienced, which we cannot put in words but are essential to know in order to understand the culture and the fears better. The book is all-encompassing view of the muslim world, it goes back in the history of Islam and sets the context on how Quran was revealed. the origin of Islam and various practises, and also the political side of things.
The gaps within and between the community are age old, but this is the first time, I thought what I can call my point of view, was so well put across. 10/10 on everything.
October 26, 2021
The book arrived on 20th Oct. I started reading on 21st and completed on 26th today.
Read 390 pg. in flat 6 days. I Just couldn't put it down.
Very lucid writing and well thought out, logical with multiple references on each page. I will write a detail review over the weekend and post. Do watch the space!
Read 390 pg. in flat 6 days. I Just couldn't put it down.
Very lucid writing and well thought out, logical with multiple references on each page. I will write a detail review over the weekend and post. Do watch the space!
March 22, 2023
The book was clearly and eye opener and gave an insight into a religion that I don’t know much about which was very interesting. Having said that even though I know this is non fiction, I found the book too factual and giving too much data which I found difficult to remember and relate too.
June 13, 2021
This is an excellent book! While If Oceans Were Ink provides a more spiritual and global understanding of Islam, Born A Muslim provides a more cultural and subcontinental story of the faith.
Wahab begins with her own admissions and definitions of being a Muslim in India, in the Introduction to the book. (As a prelude one may also listen to the 'Muslim in India' episode of the Seen & the Unseen podcast with the author. Available here: https://seenunseen.in/episodes/2021/3...) She follows it with a brief historical background, tracking the history of Islam worldwide and in India, from the 6th century to the Independence era. This is followed with the description of the main sects among Muslims, followed by the insecurities of the minority community in India, as well as how the minorities interact in the political, economic and social arenas. At the end, she grapples with the question of women following Islam in our country, and what our collective future holds in Modi's India.
I found the book extremely well-researched and fairly comprehensive in its dealing with the subject. Wahab has an understated quality of being able to play the role of both the observer as well as the subject -- so as we move on with the book, the more personal interactions and interviews give way to peer reviewed articles and books by exemplars from India and abroad. For many a subject, she begins with her own experience followed by an optimum foundation of the historical and socio-political sources on the topic. This allows the narration to be both grounded in facts, as well as light enough to be read profusely post a hard day's work.
However, a couple of things that were kind of hiccups in an otherwise smooth reading experience was its exploration of the Kashmir question (or lack of thereof). Throughout the book, Wahab makes it a point to differentiate between Kashmiri Muslims and Indian Muslims, which I felt was an uncomfortable shorthand, requiring a necessary study on the politics and society of Kashmir in a book that seeks to uncover and present truths about Islam in India. (Of course, the case may be made that the subtitle does mention "Some Truths...", so maybe I should just chill?) Another thing was an over-reliance on interviews, especially in the initial chapter and the chapters on minority politics. While I understand the book is not an ethnographic study, a repeated citation of emails and personal interviews with somebody here and somebody there does make her own premises and conclusions appear flimsy. Since certain "facts" were simply opinions, as an Indian Muslim, I found myself disagreeing with them occasionally.
Which brings me to my last point: While the book is meant for both Muslims and non-Muslims in India alike, for somebody extremely uninitiated to the faith and its people, this may serve as a definitely heavy and somewhat biased introduction. (Or maybe I should trust my fellow non-Muslim brethren a bit more? Haha.)
That said, with all my "complaints" as stated, I do agree that whichever way Wahab may have written this, I or the other 204 millions of Muslims in India, would have found something or the other that could have been made better. So as a conclusion, I would just like to say that like, again, like If Oceans Were Ink, helped me understand my faith better, this helped me understand its followers better.
And that is enough for one book :)
Wahab begins with her own admissions and definitions of being a Muslim in India, in the Introduction to the book. (As a prelude one may also listen to the 'Muslim in India' episode of the Seen & the Unseen podcast with the author. Available here: https://seenunseen.in/episodes/2021/3...) She follows it with a brief historical background, tracking the history of Islam worldwide and in India, from the 6th century to the Independence era. This is followed with the description of the main sects among Muslims, followed by the insecurities of the minority community in India, as well as how the minorities interact in the political, economic and social arenas. At the end, she grapples with the question of women following Islam in our country, and what our collective future holds in Modi's India.
I found the book extremely well-researched and fairly comprehensive in its dealing with the subject. Wahab has an understated quality of being able to play the role of both the observer as well as the subject -- so as we move on with the book, the more personal interactions and interviews give way to peer reviewed articles and books by exemplars from India and abroad. For many a subject, she begins with her own experience followed by an optimum foundation of the historical and socio-political sources on the topic. This allows the narration to be both grounded in facts, as well as light enough to be read profusely post a hard day's work.
However, a couple of things that were kind of hiccups in an otherwise smooth reading experience was its exploration of the Kashmir question (or lack of thereof). Throughout the book, Wahab makes it a point to differentiate between Kashmiri Muslims and Indian Muslims, which I felt was an uncomfortable shorthand, requiring a necessary study on the politics and society of Kashmir in a book that seeks to uncover and present truths about Islam in India. (Of course, the case may be made that the subtitle does mention "Some Truths...", so maybe I should just chill?) Another thing was an over-reliance on interviews, especially in the initial chapter and the chapters on minority politics. While I understand the book is not an ethnographic study, a repeated citation of emails and personal interviews with somebody here and somebody there does make her own premises and conclusions appear flimsy. Since certain "facts" were simply opinions, as an Indian Muslim, I found myself disagreeing with them occasionally.
Which brings me to my last point: While the book is meant for both Muslims and non-Muslims in India alike, for somebody extremely uninitiated to the faith and its people, this may serve as a definitely heavy and somewhat biased introduction. (Or maybe I should trust my fellow non-Muslim brethren a bit more? Haha.)
That said, with all my "complaints" as stated, I do agree that whichever way Wahab may have written this, I or the other 204 millions of Muslims in India, would have found something or the other that could have been made better. So as a conclusion, I would just like to say that like, again, like If Oceans Were Ink, helped me understand my faith better, this helped me understand its followers better.
And that is enough for one book :)
April 2, 2021
Ghazala Wahab’s Born a Muslim is a compelling account that describes the plight of every Muslim who has to bear the brunt of his/her identity and pretend to be someone else in order to become a part and be treated as an equal, not an outcast. Even though Muslims live across the world, the countries which have the majority still do not promise democracy to the Muslim population. Probably this is how the strict beliefs and norms are perpetuated into their minds and they are made to follow the unidirectional faith without having the courage to question the right and the wrong. Born a Muslim examines the struggles of belonging to a religion that often thrusts its believers towards a more complicated belief system that is sometimes, questionable.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/book-revi...
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/book-revi...
March 28, 2021
"Born a Muslim goes beyond stereotypes and news headlines to present an extraordinarily compelling and illuminating portrait of one of the largest and most diverse communities in India"
• Born a Muslim discloses the truth and the issues faced by Indian Muslims in Modern India. The author shares her personal experiences, discusses about the origin of Islam in India. This book is insightful and thought-provoking as the author talks about the world's second-largest religion and how it is practiced in India. The author also suggests how the living of Indian Muslims might be improved.
• I find so many unknown words and some Islamic terms but the author has made them clear to us by putting the related text in the footer of every page. Also, it's a lengthy book and slow-paced. The language is a little complicated but this book is an eye-opener and must be read by every citizen of India. Well researched.
• Overall, It was one of the best-read I've read. I recommend this book to everyone. A great job is done by the author. Also, the writing style of the author is highly commendable. I'm glad that I get a chance to read this book.
Must be read by Everyone!
• Born a Muslim discloses the truth and the issues faced by Indian Muslims in Modern India. The author shares her personal experiences, discusses about the origin of Islam in India. This book is insightful and thought-provoking as the author talks about the world's second-largest religion and how it is practiced in India. The author also suggests how the living of Indian Muslims might be improved.
• I find so many unknown words and some Islamic terms but the author has made them clear to us by putting the related text in the footer of every page. Also, it's a lengthy book and slow-paced. The language is a little complicated but this book is an eye-opener and must be read by every citizen of India. Well researched.
• Overall, It was one of the best-read I've read. I recommend this book to everyone. A great job is done by the author. Also, the writing style of the author is highly commendable. I'm glad that I get a chance to read this book.
Must be read by Everyone!
April 3, 2021
The book starts with the author adding a memorable account of her own family, she has written about her grandfather, Abba, who she respects and adores and how he practices Islam in India, how he believes in doing and now showing that his goodwill, her religious trip with him, how serene she feels but then when she takes the same trip later in her life it feels monotonous, and the purity and serenity is somewhat lost to her.
This book is a result of extensive research mentioning facts, logic, personal memoir, historical data and is very informative. The author discusses how Muslims are always seen in a somewhat strange, secretive light and their religion is misunderstood by many though they are the second largest religion in India.
The book discusses the Origin of the religion that starts from Arabia, and the settlement in many parts of the world including India.
What is their state with the Indian Government, and what is their position of respect in the country.
This is a compelling account of the life and ways of Muslims and why they are the other in India, although they are a diverse community, their practices are still alien to many, has their faith changed and become more orthodox because of sticking to the rules or are they dynamic.
She discusses festivals, rituals, traditions which was interesting to read. She also says it's not necessary to be well versed in Quran as everyone thinks that it is, and she has not been forced by her parents to do so.
The book ranges mentions from the time of Independence to the present scenario and is an important read no matter which religion we belong to.
Thanks to AlephBookco for the review copy.
This book is a result of extensive research mentioning facts, logic, personal memoir, historical data and is very informative. The author discusses how Muslims are always seen in a somewhat strange, secretive light and their religion is misunderstood by many though they are the second largest religion in India.
The book discusses the Origin of the religion that starts from Arabia, and the settlement in many parts of the world including India.
What is their state with the Indian Government, and what is their position of respect in the country.
This is a compelling account of the life and ways of Muslims and why they are the other in India, although they are a diverse community, their practices are still alien to many, has their faith changed and become more orthodox because of sticking to the rules or are they dynamic.
She discusses festivals, rituals, traditions which was interesting to read. She also says it's not necessary to be well versed in Quran as everyone thinks that it is, and she has not been forced by her parents to do so.
The book ranges mentions from the time of Independence to the present scenario and is an important read no matter which religion we belong to.
Thanks to AlephBookco for the review copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2022
My uncle in India sent out a PDF of this book, via my dad. This is the story of my heritage and my community, but because I've lived my entire life outside India, it's not a story I know as well as, say, the story of Blacks in America. I really appreciated the historical sections and reading about modern day sociology of Indian Muslims. But too often, this book veers into generalization from anecdotes. Because Wahab is not really a scholar, at least not a religious scholar, the parts on Islam are quite simplified and rely on her personal observations and interviews, and draw largely from secondary sources. However, I think this may be a valuable thought piece for many Indian Muslims not as well versed on the more scholarly or primary sources.
April 27, 2023
I marvel at Wahab’s courage to speak her mind in a country where people are offended at the slightest. The book is a good read, delving into a well rounded perspective of life in India as a Muslim, and how Islam came and transformed over the centuries within India.
As someone who is not Muslim, I found the chapter “One Faith, Many Sects” too detailed and hard to follow. There were some chapters that I especially enjoyed which spoke about Women and the Changing Face of Modern Society, but some parts (Minority Politics) were very dry and uninteresting to me.
As someone who is not Muslim, I found the chapter “One Faith, Many Sects” too detailed and hard to follow. There were some chapters that I especially enjoyed which spoke about Women and the Changing Face of Modern Society, but some parts (Minority Politics) were very dry and uninteresting to me.
December 26, 2024
Have mixed feelings about the book and would probably rate this 3.5/5. While the author does do a decent job of providing history and context for Islam in general and it's journey in India, a lot of this seems to be just scratching the surface (to be fair to the author, that would require the work to be even more volumnious, something that may dissuade many readers). Don't belive this would do much for non-Muslims trying to understand Muslims in India. A nice effort, but needed more detailed research and definitely more on post 2014 India.
January 13, 2023
Well, this was disappointing. Wahab mixes personal memoirs, religious apologism, and present- and past-day politics. Unfortunately, it creates a disorganized mess. While the parts about the Deobandi and Barelvi sects are informative (just how rotten and fundamentalist they are in their outlook is shocking), Wahab whitewashes Islam to an unacceptable degree. She excuses far too many brutalities and evils by means of relativism.
April 1, 2021
Islam is the second largest religion in India. Approximately 172 million people in India are Muslims.
This book tracks the history of the religion from its revelation in Arabia in the seventh century to its spread across the world and India and how it involved to 'Indian Islam' influenced by local traditions and customs.
The author takes a clear eyed look at every aspect of Islam in India today.
She talks about state of Muslims in Independent India, the story of Inidan Islam, Tabling, Jamaat, insecurities of the Muslims in India, the socio economic and intellectual growth of Muslims, minority politics and changing face of Islam.
This book weaves together personal experiences, history, reportage and interviews with wide range of people. The personal experiences where author talks about the riots, meeting Muslims who hid their religion at work, her friends in school and college, different beliefs amongst her own family members hit home.
Beyond stereotypical narration of Muslims we get to actually understand their mindset, their insecurities and their beliefs which is very important. This book is not only Muslims but also every Indian citizen.
The book is lengthy and an extraordinary portrait of Islam. Language is slightly on a difficult level and the pace is slow.
Definitely recommended!!
This book tracks the history of the religion from its revelation in Arabia in the seventh century to its spread across the world and India and how it involved to 'Indian Islam' influenced by local traditions and customs.
The author takes a clear eyed look at every aspect of Islam in India today.
She talks about state of Muslims in Independent India, the story of Inidan Islam, Tabling, Jamaat, insecurities of the Muslims in India, the socio economic and intellectual growth of Muslims, minority politics and changing face of Islam.
This book weaves together personal experiences, history, reportage and interviews with wide range of people. The personal experiences where author talks about the riots, meeting Muslims who hid their religion at work, her friends in school and college, different beliefs amongst her own family members hit home.
Beyond stereotypical narration of Muslims we get to actually understand their mindset, their insecurities and their beliefs which is very important. This book is not only Muslims but also every Indian citizen.
The book is lengthy and an extraordinary portrait of Islam. Language is slightly on a difficult level and the pace is slow.
Definitely recommended!!
April 3, 2021
One of the best books on Indian Muslims that you will read. Weaved with personal anecdotes and hard facts, no other book explains so well what is it like to be a Muslim in India.
Also, if you have any non-Muslim friends, ask them to read it or gift a copy, for them to understand what we are, and why we are the way we are.
Also, if you have any non-Muslim friends, ask them to read it or gift a copy, for them to understand what we are, and why we are the way we are.
September 27, 2021
After a very long time I found a book that made a very interesting read,well researched,very well analysed and very well written ! Right from the introduction,the conflict between identity and ideology and the troubled,testing and trying times the Muslims are passing through ! What surprised me the most was like someone was sharing my views or my views were being shared by someone ! Exactly my sentiments,views as I was turning the pages… The author calls the so called experts ( mullahs ) with no exposure to learning they remain intellectual pygmies and preside over 200 million Indian Muslims holding fear of hell over them ( Page 38 )
Some topics like : Torment on the day of judgement,” Horror of the grave “ ( Pages 163 to 164 ) are very well depicted according to the moderate muslim in contrast to what is explained by the fanatics !
In the chapter “ One Faith many sects “ where a lack of unity,cooperation and coordination that ails the community and my personal opinion is that there is more danger internally than externally ! Some topics have been very well researched and written about the complexity of Quranic Verses : Jihad (page 172 ) Houris ( ( page 181 ) Alcohol ( pages 184 to 186 ) Some clerics who have proclaimed themselves as custodians of religion and scriptures have imposed their own fantasies ! It’s regrettable that a dangerous epidemic has overtaken Muslims and take it upon themselves to engage in explaining the Quran.Therefore having learnt English is not all one needs to be a doctor ( Mufti Mohammed Shafi ) page 171
The insecurities of Muslims in India need to embrace modernity especially in education,careers,woman’s rights but only if the community feels safe,secure and at peace but the current atmosphere in India is exact opposite ( page 273 )
Since the deadly blow of partition Indian Muslims have been victims of systematically cultivated prejudice which sadly has grown both in proportion and reach as written by the author.
The conclusion and the steps recommended are worthwhile and worth considering ! Superbly written and I was both impressed and inspired !
Dr.Javed Rasheed
Some topics like : Torment on the day of judgement,” Horror of the grave “ ( Pages 163 to 164 ) are very well depicted according to the moderate muslim in contrast to what is explained by the fanatics !
In the chapter “ One Faith many sects “ where a lack of unity,cooperation and coordination that ails the community and my personal opinion is that there is more danger internally than externally ! Some topics have been very well researched and written about the complexity of Quranic Verses : Jihad (page 172 ) Houris ( ( page 181 ) Alcohol ( pages 184 to 186 ) Some clerics who have proclaimed themselves as custodians of religion and scriptures have imposed their own fantasies ! It’s regrettable that a dangerous epidemic has overtaken Muslims and take it upon themselves to engage in explaining the Quran.Therefore having learnt English is not all one needs to be a doctor ( Mufti Mohammed Shafi ) page 171
The insecurities of Muslims in India need to embrace modernity especially in education,careers,woman’s rights but only if the community feels safe,secure and at peace but the current atmosphere in India is exact opposite ( page 273 )
Since the deadly blow of partition Indian Muslims have been victims of systematically cultivated prejudice which sadly has grown both in proportion and reach as written by the author.
The conclusion and the steps recommended are worthwhile and worth considering ! Superbly written and I was both impressed and inspired !
Dr.Javed Rasheed
May 9, 2022
The introduction is beautifully written and it's intriguing. However the chapters are long and the topic continues onto next chapter in some of the pages. Surely, could have had more headings.
The author has tried her best to cover most of the relatable topics which is an interesting read as it has personal experiences and interviews. The book is an easy read as Ghazala Wahab is not a religious scholar, hence she has a general perspective towards issues which has been compiled consisely. It makes the book easily accessible and readable for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Although, she had covered about origin of Islam in India, current situation of Muslims in India, women, minority politics and other insightful issues but she had skipped about Islamic militant organisation and terrorist activities which is a burning issue in India and globally-both. Also, she goes mellow about the Muslim invasion of India and the atrocities of Mughal ruler- Aurangzeb on non-Muslims.
The book is definitely not biased though it has an undertone of victimization. The book has evidence based facts on how the social scenario changed in India, demolition of Babri mosque and the consequences, the multiple division and subdivisions among sects, the intricacies of Sharia laws, other backward classes, beef ban. The author is not complaining in her narrative. She has highlighted the plight and that gives an unbiased reader a fresh perspective.
The last chapter conclusion is equally strong like the introduction. The author suggests solution to the issues that she has discussed in the book. Her suggestions are development oriented and positive. Also, they are not hypothetical suggestions. Overall it's an insightful read.
The author has tried her best to cover most of the relatable topics which is an interesting read as it has personal experiences and interviews. The book is an easy read as Ghazala Wahab is not a religious scholar, hence she has a general perspective towards issues which has been compiled consisely. It makes the book easily accessible and readable for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Although, she had covered about origin of Islam in India, current situation of Muslims in India, women, minority politics and other insightful issues but she had skipped about Islamic militant organisation and terrorist activities which is a burning issue in India and globally-both. Also, she goes mellow about the Muslim invasion of India and the atrocities of Mughal ruler- Aurangzeb on non-Muslims.
The book is definitely not biased though it has an undertone of victimization. The book has evidence based facts on how the social scenario changed in India, demolition of Babri mosque and the consequences, the multiple division and subdivisions among sects, the intricacies of Sharia laws, other backward classes, beef ban. The author is not complaining in her narrative. She has highlighted the plight and that gives an unbiased reader a fresh perspective.
The last chapter conclusion is equally strong like the introduction. The author suggests solution to the issues that she has discussed in the book. Her suggestions are development oriented and positive. Also, they are not hypothetical suggestions. Overall it's an insightful read.
July 16, 2021
"Born A Muslim" is a bold take on the othering of Muslims in India, currently a national project of the people holding the reins of power. In this book, Ms Wahab takes us through the history, ailments, needs, angst and the undying hope of Indian muslims. She vividly explains the Kafkaesque turmoils that an average Muslim undergoes in the public sphere and the struggle within the community that's getting increasingly left far behind in social progress.
While she tries to educate the lay person about the basics of Islam as a means to remove some of the assumptions about the religion, she sometimes delves into the usual trope about how a perfect religion is misused by some corrupt adherents. All religions look good on paper and Islam is no exception.
There were also some occasional flashes of conservativism in her views that mildly surprised me. Nevertheless, she enunciates what is required to be done for the uplift of the community. It takes a huge effort to write a book like this and not sound preachy. Highly recommended.
While she tries to educate the lay person about the basics of Islam as a means to remove some of the assumptions about the religion, she sometimes delves into the usual trope about how a perfect religion is misused by some corrupt adherents. All religions look good on paper and Islam is no exception.
There were also some occasional flashes of conservativism in her views that mildly surprised me. Nevertheless, she enunciates what is required to be done for the uplift of the community. It takes a huge effort to write a book like this and not sound preachy. Highly recommended.
February 2, 2022
The book is a personal memoir combined with the history of the origin of Islam and its entry into the Indian subcontinent. How Islam came into being and spread all over the world. How and when Islam first came to India, what was the purpose of coming to India. The first Islamic invaders and the first rulers who stayed back in India and made it their home. The various sects of Islam and the difference between them, the Islam in India and how its various sects. The general perception about Muslims post-independence and based on those perception and real events the insecurities of Indian Muslims. The position of women in the Islam, what it was and what it is now. This book will give you a very good idea about Islam and Indian Muslims.
A very well written and structured book to give the readers an understanding about Islam and what it means to be an Indian Muslim.
A very well written and structured book to give the readers an understanding about Islam and what it means to be an Indian Muslim.
April 25, 2021
A laypersons guide to the history of Islam and its evolution in India from early contact through trade through the rule of multiple Muslim dynasties, the colonial era and Partition through to the present day mobilisations against discriminatory laws. It lays bare the myths and contradictions of Indian Muslims, especially women, and India’s attitudes toward them. Strongly recommended for anyone with an interest in understanding the current context and how it came to be. The book is weaker in its recommendations for policy and action and, it seems to me, unable to fully transcend the author’s class biases.
July 12, 2021
A very balanced view of the Islam in India The author brings out the predicament of an Indian Muslim who is at the receiving end because of age old prejudices.The author brings out some wrong interpretations of the Quran by illiterate or semi literate religious teachers . Though a very difficult proposal the author brings out how the literate and affluent Muslims should take on to remove the preconceived opinions about Muslims in the Indian society. Oveall a very good book to be read by all Indians who wants to have a dispaasionate view on Islam
March 31, 2021
From historical significance to the present-day narrative stories and their impacts on individuals and society, it covers all major aspects of Islam Religion. This book helps in gaining a different perspective and raises important questions on what we have become as a society.
In the end, I wonder if some people struggle every day just because they are 'Born a Muslim'?. Alas, The sad answer is "YES!"
In the end, I wonder if some people struggle every day just because they are 'Born a Muslim'?. Alas, The sad answer is "YES!"
November 22, 2021
An excellent and engaging read.
This book weaves together Ghazala Wahab's personal experiences with a history of Islam, philosophical reflections on the faith, and the political condition of Muslims in post-Independence India. The author doesn't just provide critique but also solutions. I would recommend it to non-Muslims who want to know more about what being a Muslim in a majoritarian India (especially North India) is like.
This book weaves together Ghazala Wahab's personal experiences with a history of Islam, philosophical reflections on the faith, and the political condition of Muslims in post-Independence India. The author doesn't just provide critique but also solutions. I would recommend it to non-Muslims who want to know more about what being a Muslim in a majoritarian India (especially North India) is like.
November 16, 2021
A must read book especially for all people of South Asian descent, regardless of religious affiliation. Ghazala Wahab eloquently brings out the trials and tribulations of India’s Muslim population - some self inflicted but mostly resulting from a non caring and often vindictive politics that afflicts her country. Very broad reaching and impressive work. Filled in many gaps for me.
March 20, 2022
As the title suggests, the book touches a controversial topic with utmost sincerity and delicate balance.
The author, herself being a muslim, traces the everyday life and various stereotypes come accompanied. Their relations vis-a-vis the majority community, the reasons of strain and the way ahead to come out of the rhetorics.
The author, herself being a muslim, traces the everyday life and various stereotypes come accompanied. Their relations vis-a-vis the majority community, the reasons of strain and the way ahead to come out of the rhetorics.
May 15, 2021
Born a Muslim by Ghala Wahab is an excellent read . It takes you to the difficulties faced by the Muslim community in India . It also convinces us that many prejudice we make towards this community is wrong . A good read
May 31, 2021
Fascintaing account of Islam's origins in India leading upto its current state. Poignant take on the plight of educated Muslims in India. The presents a balanced view which is difficult while tackling a subject like this.
August 19, 2021
Great book which explained about the spread of Islam in India and what led to some of the ill practices in the religion .
The book has some good takes on Sufism and condems some of practices which was propagated by less learned maulanas in the country.
The book has some good takes on Sufism and condems some of practices which was propagated by less learned maulanas in the country.
October 15, 2021
Very informative and timely book about Islam in India...would recommend this for all to understand more about Muslims in India and also for those who are interested in the current socio-political situation in India
Well written book with deep insights
Well written book with deep insights
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