Beyond Europe: Perspectives on Minorities, Religions & Secular States. Faisal Devji

Conversation with Reda Benkirane Videoconference, 29 December 2020, 115 minutes Introductory text by Dada Kehinde In an insightful interview led by Reda Benkirane, Oxford historian Faisal Devji’s diverse background and academic journey are highlighted. Devji, originating from a migrant trading community with roots in East Africa, travelled from Canada to England, exemplifying exposure to various cultures and nations. His research revolves around the broader Muslim community rather than being limited to Indian and South Asian demographics. Devji consciously maintains a broader perspective on his intellectual pursuits and academic work, as seen in his article “Gesture of Homage,” which explores Tanzania’s political landscape. Devji’s approach to Postcolonialism and Subaltern studies distinguishes him from his colleagues working on these historical and geographical areas. While his colleagues focus on post-colonial nation-states, Devji’s approach delves into the journey of ideas between people. He sees Subaltern studies as a continuation of anti-colonial nationalism and views it as an evolving concept rather than a static one tied to a particular geography. In terms of secularism, Devji emphasizes a non-European perspective. He highlights the South Asian viewpoint where secularism entails treating all religious groups equally, fostering harmony among diverse communities, and addressing historical conflicts. Devji’s interpretation resonates with the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan, where separate nations were established to facilitate coexistence of different faiths. Regarding the role of Muslims in the 21st century, Devji sees them as potential mediators in various contexts. He discusses shifts in India from caste-based issues to religious differences and notes Pakistan’s internal religious variations within Islam. Donevji also points out Islam’s historical role as a connector among various religions, making it a bridge. The interview delves into the relevance of Mohammed Iqbal’s philosophical work today. Devji highlights Iqbal’s unique perspective, combining Eastern and Western philosophies to redefine modernity as an intellectual concept beyond technological advancement. Iqbal’s insights align with contemporary discussions on technology’s societal impacts, offering valuable analysis of modern dynamics. In conclusion, the interview with Faisal Devji provides a captivating exploration of his background, research, and perspectives on topics ranging from Postcolonialism to secularism and the role of Muslims in the modern era. His unique insights and approaches contribute to a deeper understanding of these complex subjects. Dada Kehinde Faisal Devji is professor of history at the university of Oxford. He is the author of Landscapes of the Jihad: Militancy, Morality, Modernity (Hurst, 2005), The Terrorist in Search of Humanity: Militant Islam and Global Politics (Hurst, 2009), The Impossible India: Gandhi and the Temptation of Violence (Harvard University Press, 2012) and Muslim Zion: Pakistan as a Political Idea (Harvard University Press, 2013). He has coedited Islam after Liberalism (with Zaheer Kazmi, Oxford University Press, 2017) and Political Thought in Action: The Bhagavad Gita and Modern India (with Shruti Kapila, Cambridge University Press, 2013). 00:00 -Introduction 01:32 -Migration journey 05:38 -Why I Focus on India and Pakistan 13:46 -Postcolonialism and Subaltern Studies 28:58 -Grand Narratives 41:48 -Muslim Zion 01:04:12 -Secularism 01:26:27 -Islam's Impact in South Asia 01:39:14 -Mohammed Iqbal's Philosophy