Visit to Darul Uloom Hyderabad – Learning Faith, Knowledge & Interfaith Dialogue ~ KHALVONTAWI - Voice of the Voiceless from Northeast India

Visit to Darul Uloom Hyderabad – Learning Faith, Knowledge & Interfaith Dialogue

During our visit to Darul Uloom, Hyderabad, on 25 October 2023 afternoon, we had a wonderful experience exploring one of the city’s most respected Islamic educational institutions. This madrassa was established in 1976. The school consists of classes Grade 6 to 10, and Urdu is the main medium of instruction. It serves as a center of learning where students study the Quran, Hadith, Islamic law, Arabic, and moral teachings. The aim of the institution is to provide both religious and value-based education, helping students grow in both knowledge and faith. It is an Islamic institution providing free education, healthcare, and vocational training to uplift marginalized and underprivileged children.

Our visit was part of a learning program on “Interfaith Dialogue”, which turned out to be a truly eye-opening experience for all of us. We were warmly welcomed by the teachers, students, and library staff. Their kindness and hospitality reflected the true spirit of peace, respect, and brotherhood. The teachers shared about their daily routines and how they guide students to balance religious and academic learning. One of the teachers interestingly said, “There are many students who can memorize the Quran from cover to cover and recite it without a single mistake. To learn all the surahs and ayahs, it may take about two to three years.”

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, has 114 chapters (surahs), divided into either 6,236 or 6,348 verses (ayahs) depending on whether the opening phrase “Bismillah” is counted. Unlike the Old or New Testament, it is organized into 30 parts (juz) for easier recitation and study.

A highlight of our visit was the library, which has a rich collection of books, journals, and articles in Arabic, Urdu, and English. The staff explained how they preserve rare manuscripts and encourage students to read widely.

Darul Uloom Deoband, founded in 1866 in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most renowned Islamic seminaries in the world. It played a major role in shaping Islamic education and reform movements across South Asia. The institution is widely respected for its scholarship, discipline, and deep devotion to Islamic learning. Visiting this historic seat of knowledge remains one of my cherished wishes for the days to come.

Overall, our visit to Darul Uloom, Hyderabad, was enlightening and peaceful. It beautifully combines faith, discipline, and knowledge—nurturing young minds to become thoughtful, respectful, and responsible citizens.

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