Asif Iqbal, the founder of Dhanak of Humanity, is a man on a mission to help young couples facing opposition from their families for their interfaith or inter-caste marriages. For him, Eid-ul-Fitr is a time to celebrate with his family, visit friends, and attend prayers at the mosque with his father and brother.
Asif, who grew up in Indian Air Force campuses across the country, fondly remembers his childhood Eid celebrations. His father would take him to visit people’s homes after the mosque, wishing them “Eid Mubarak.” Now, with his wife Ranu Kulshrestra and daughters Raavi and Riya, Asif incorporates more cultural elements into the festivities. Celebrating diversity is essential for exposing children to their traditions and cultures.
A Journey of Acceptance and Harmony
Initially, Asif’s family did not approve of his 1989 marriage to Ranu, a non-Muslim. However, they now come together on Eid, a testament to the power of love and understanding. At their home, all festivals are celebrated as cultural expressions, from decorating a Christmas tree to lighting Diya’s on Diwali and playing with colors on Holi.
Asif is working on an idea to celebrate India’s diversity in a way that transcends religious boundaries. His NGO, Dhanak of Humanity, has helped over 5,000 couples solemnize their marriages, providing them with support and guidance through the legal process and beyond.
Empowering Women and Challenging Gender Stereotypes
Asif believes that the root cause of honor killings and forced marriages lies in the status of women. Through Dhanak, he not only educates communities about gender equality but also empowers women to assert their rights and break free from the cycle of “patriarchy and religious supremacy.”
However, he acknowledges that even after helping women escape oppressive situations, they often perpetuate gender stereotypes. Dhanak then works to educate both women and men, encouraging women to be independent and men to respect their partners as equal human beings.
For a detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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