Archive for category: Inaugural Ceremonies

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD), International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), organized a book launch ceremony for its recent publication titled Religious and Social Life of Baha’i and Parsi Communities of Pakistan, authored by Dr. Abdul Fareed Brohi. The academic event was held under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, President International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).

Dr. Anis Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, Riphah International University Islamabad, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest. In his address, he appreciated IRD for its continued academic engagement and constructive research initiatives. He commended the author for selecting a sensitive and intellectually relevant topic and noted that in the contemporary multicultural and multireligious global environment, Islam advocates peaceful coexistence and guarantees the right of followers of other faiths to practice their religious beliefs and rituals.

Dr. Anis Ahmad categorically rejected the notion that Islam allows violence against non-Muslims and stated that negative propaganda against Islam and Pakistan lacks factual basis. He emphasized that Pakistan is a safe country for religious minorities and that they are not subjected to systematic injustice or victimization within society.

Earlier, Dr. Muhammad Akram, Director General, Shariah Academy IIUI, highlighted the scholarly value of the publication and termed it a significant contribution for both general readers and researchers. He stated that the book represents the first comprehensive academic study of its kind in Pakistan and adds meaningfully to national and international scholarship in the fields of interfaith studies and religious sociology.

Author of the book, Dr. Abdul Fareed Brohi, explained that the study presents an objective and analytical overview of the Baha’i and Parsi communities, tracing their historical origins to Iran and examining their religious practices, social structures, and methods of identity preservation. He shared that Baha’i communities are present in Karachi, Peshawar, and Islamabad and operate through an organized National Spiritual Assembly. He further emphasized that religious minorities in Pakistan enjoy constitutional protection and religious freedom, and that these communities maintain peaceful relations with the broader society.

Dr. Sohail bin Aziz, Director NRKNA, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the author’s effort in producing a well-researched work on an important and under-explored subject.

At the outset, Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director IRD, welcomed the Chief Guest, speakers, and participants, and briefed the audience about the mandate of IRD and the academic importance of the publication.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of the book among participants, while commemorative shields were presented to the Chief Guest and distinguished speakers.

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) has published its latest book on the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, titled Rahmat-e-Sab Jahān ﷺ (Mercy to All Worlds ﷺ), authored by renowned scholar Habib ur Rahman Asim. This work is not a mere catalogue of historical events and names; rather, it offers a profound intellectual and spiritual journey. The author sincerely endeavors to uncover the beauty of the Prophet’s ﷺ character, the wisdom in his actions, and the aesthetic grace of his personality in each narrative.

At its core, the book emphasizes that the sacred life of the Prophet ﷺ is not a tale of the past but a comprehensive and living guide for people of all times and places. It holds particular value for those striving to improve their worldly lives and succeed in the hereafter, as every word and deed of the Prophet ﷺ is rich with wisdom and worthy of emulation.

The first copy of Rahmat-e-Sab Jahān ﷺ (Mercy to All Worlds ﷺ) was presented today to the President of the university. Commending the scholarly effort, the President remarked that raising awareness about the life of the Prophet ﷺ is one of the most pressing needs of our time, and this book is a commendable step in that direction.

During the presentation, Mr. Nasir Fareed also briefed the President on the author’s academic contributions. He noted that Prof. Habib ur Rahman Asim previously served as a professor in the Department of Arabic at the International Islamic University Islamabad, and is currently serving as Chairman of the Iqbal Chair at Bahria University.

The book draws upon over fifty authoritative works on the Prophetic biography and numerous scholarly articles, lending it considerable academic depth. Its lucid, meaningful, and engaging prose makes it accessible to general readers, while also serving as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers.

A notable aspect of this publication is that it was completed under the thoughtful guidance and intellectual patronage of the university’s President, who recognized its scholarly importance and considered it a vital extension of the university’s vision—appreciating it as a significant contribution to IRD’s broader mission.

This publication marks a sincere effort to reinforce IRD’s research impact and to reimagine the study of the Prophetic biography as an intellectual, aesthetic, and actionable pursuit. Rahmat-e-Sab Jahān ﷺ (Mercy to All Worlds ﷺ) invites readers to reflect upon themselves through the mirror of the Prophet’s ﷺ life, to refine their character, and to improve their moral outlook. It is a valuable gift for all those who wish to illuminate their hearts and minds with the light of the Prophetic example.