Indian Muslim Scholar Arshad Madani Says ‘Vande Mataram Contains Shirk’; Calls Forced Recitation Unconstitutional

International News Reporte

NEW DELHI: Senior Indian Islamic scholar and President of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind (Arshad Madani faction), Maulana Arshad Madani, has said that the words of India’s national song “Vande Mataram” contain concepts contrary to Islamic monotheism, asserting that a Muslim can worship only Allah and cannot associate anyone with Him.

In a statement released on social media, Maulana Madani clarified that Muslims have no objection if others choose to sing or recite Vande Mataram, but insisted that no Muslim can participate in any act that contradicts the fundamental tenets of Islam.

He said the anthem’s verses — particularly the first four stanzas — use expressions that equate the homeland with the Hindu goddess Durga, and include language that implies worship of the land. “These are ideas rooted in shirk,” he said, emphasizing that such concepts directly conflict with a Muslim’s basic faith and belief in the oneness of God.

Maulana Madani highlighted that the Indian Constitution protects every citizen from being compelled to adopt any slogan, ideology, or song that violates their religious faith or personal beliefs. “Love for one’s country is separate,” he said, “but worship is something entirely different.”

He added that Indian Muslims do not need certificates of patriotism, reiterating that refusal to recite a particular song does not diminish their loyalty to India.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates in India regarding the enforcement of national symbols and slogans in educational institutions, public events, and political gatherings, where some groups push for mandatory recitation of Vande Mataram.

Maulana Madani’s statement once again underscores the tension between religious freedom and nationalist expectations in India’s socio-political landscape.