# Al-Kifah

Al-Kifah (Arabic: الكفاح) was a biweekly Arabic magazine, founded in 1973 under the editorship of Wahiduzzaman Kairanawi. Published by Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, it served as a mouthpiece for the organization, addressing the challenges faced by Indian Muslims. The eight-page publication aimed to raise awareness of these concerns among a wider Islamic audience, especially in the Gulf countries. Though Al-Kifah had no official affiliation with Darul Uloom Deoband, it regularly published articles from writers connected to the institution's Arabic publication, Al-Daie. The magazine ceased publication in 1987.

## Initial efforts

After India's independence in 1947, Indian Muslims faced significant challenges, with the partition and communal tensions weakening their collective identity and livelihoods. The Arab world, focused on Pakistan, often overlooked the Muslims in India, considering them a small, marginalized group with little influence. In response, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind sought to reshape perceptions by launching Al-Kifah in October 1973, aiming to address misconceptions, educate Indian Muslims, and highlight the organization's role. Led by Wahiduzzaman Kairanawi, who managed the magazine single-handedly for several years, Al-Kifah was distinguished by its presentation and non-commercial approach, maintaining a focus on the community's religious and social needs. The magazine was later edited by Altafur Rahman Azmi and Muhammad Mazammil Qasmi before ceasing publication in December 1987.

## Ideological focus

The magazine, while primarily political, covered a wide range of topics, including religious discourse, philosophy, global affairs, and scientific and cultural developments. Launched during the Congress government's tenure in India, it aimed to address misconceptions in Arab countries regarding the status of Indian Muslims, highlighting their role in society and occasionally critiquing government policies. A large portion of its content focused on the Jamiat's programs, travels, and activities. Special editions included a commemoration of Faisal of Saudi Arabia and a centennial issue for Darul Uloom Deoband, each spanning 132 pages. Content was presented by writers such as Nadeem al-Wajidi and occasionally featured works by Arab authors. Published in a large-format eight-page layout, the magazine included specialized sections on topics like political terminologies and Ta'liqaat al-Suhuf, presenting technical insights and commentary on global news, alongside samples of Arabic calligraphy.

## Academic notability

Academics have analyzed this magazine's efforts, emphasizing its linguistic, cultural, and thematic significance. Qamruzzaman from Aligarh Muslim University regarded it as a distinct initiative and an independent movement in Arabic journalism, marked by Kairanawi's innovative approach and wide readership. Anees Alangadan from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala highlighted its alignment with other Indian Arabic magazines in promoting Arabic language and culture. Abdur Rahman of Jawaharlal Nehru University noted its focus on Islamic issues, including the role of Deobandi scholars in anti-colonial efforts and developing connections with the Arab world. Hafizur Rahman from Gauhati University emphasized its reputation among contemporary Arabic periodicals for its quality content and cultural relevance. Zikrullah Arabi from Maulana Azad National Urdu University considered it an important publication in the context of Arabic journalism in India, engaging with Islamic and cultural themes while promoting Arabic language education. Sarwar Alam Nadwi from Aligarh Muslim University reflected on its role in spreading Islamic ideas, reviving heritage, and supporting Arabic studies. Ahmed Daisy and Habib Shahidul Islam of Gauhati University acknowledged its role in advancing the Arabic language during its publication under the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, despite its later decline.

## Transnational appeal

The magazine received recognition in the Arab world for its focus on Islamic, cultural, and political issues, particularly those concerning Indian Muslims. Publications such as Huda al-Islam, published by the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (Oman), Manar al-Islam, published by the UAE's General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, and Islamic Studies and Research, published by the League of Islamic Universities, acknowledged its content. Several newspapers also reprinted its articles, expanding its reach and increasing awareness of Indian Muslim issues among Arab audiences. Individual responses, including those from Abu Bakr Muhammad Saeed Hassan of Oman and Mahmoud Abda Ghanem of Medina, emphasized the magazine's efforts in cultural enrichment and the promotion of Arabic language studies. Similarly, Muhammad Ibrahim al-Awaid from Saudi Arabia commended its role in Islamic scholarship and in developing connections between Indian Muslims and the broader Islamic world.