Synnopsis:
Marking India’s 79th Independence Day, human rights activist and “Qaid-e-Urdu” Shamim Ahmed shares a heartfelt message of unity, cultural harmony, and national pride.
Qalam Times News Network
Kolkata | August 15, 2025
A Voice for Unity on a Historic Day
On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, veteran human rights defender and language activist Shamim Ahmed, fondly known as Qaid-e-Urdu, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message that struck a deep chord with citizens across the country.
He described the day as “a celebration not just of our freedom, but of our shared destiny as one people.” Stressing that language, culture, and identity should be bridges rather than barriers, he said:
“Our independence is incomplete without harmony among our communities. Freedom is not just the absence of chains — it is the presence of respect, equality, and opportunity for all.”
Language as a Unifying Force
Renowned for his lifelong work to protect Urdu’s dignity and promote linguistic inclusivity, Shamim Ahmed reiterated that language transcends religion and politics. “Whether it is Hindi, Urdu, or any of the thousands of tongues spoken in India, each is a thread in our national fabric. If even one thread is weakened, the whole fabric suffers,” he said.
A Call to the Next Generation
Speaking directly to the youth, the Qaid-e-Urdu urged them to safeguard the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution. “This day is also a reminder that freedom is a responsibility. The future belongs to those who defend justice, embrace diversity, and build bridges of understanding,” he remarked.
A Message of Hope
Closing his message, Shamim Ahmed called on every citizen to rise above prejudice and work together for a Naya Bharat that is both prosperous and compassionate. “Let us ensure that the India we pass on to our children is freer, fairer, and more united than the one we inherited,” he said.