‘Wisdom and Patriotism, Fly Like Eagles’: Zahack Tanvir to Students at Hikmah Graduation Day in India
Hyderabad — In a spirited celebration of academic excellence and youthful ambition, Zahack Tanvir — founder of The Milli Chronicle UK and renowned advocate for counter-extremism and social reform — participated as the Chief Guest at the 7th Graduation Day of Hikmah Public School, held on Saturday in the vibrant heart of Hyderabad, India.
The event took place at Laxmi Garden Hall, nestled along Sagar Road, where the atmosphere brimmed with energy. The hall was jampacked with enthusiastic parents, proud teachers, and gleeful students. Drone shots captured the grandeur of the evening, complemented by vibrant lighting and a series of impressive student performances — from skits and speeches to skill demonstrations and cultural showcases.
Zahack Tanvir, a globally recognized voice from India, delivered a keynote speech that resonated far beyond the walls of the hall. Addressing students, parents, and educators alike, he emphasized the deeper essence of education in shaping a just and resilient society.
“We celebrate not just certificates and medals — we celebrate progress. We celebrate the future,” Zahack began.
Drawing from Islamic tradition and modern-day challenges, he spoke of the need to pursue knowledge not merely for jobs, but for the betterment of humanity. Quoting the Prophet Muhammad, he reminded the audience that seeking knowledge is a lifelong obligation upon every Muslim — men and women alike.
He cautioned against the perils of the information age: “We live in a time of too much information — YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and now AI like ChatGPT. But not everything you see is true. Not everything you hear is wise. We need something more powerful than information — we need wisdom.”
His speech also addressed societal development and national loyalty, calling on the youth to be agents of constructive change: “Governments will come and go. But our country remains. India is our home. Be builders, not breakers. Don’t fall for hate or propaganda. This land has given us freedom and opportunity — let’s give back.”
A particularly powerful moment came when he celebrated the legacy of educated Muslim women in Islamic history — citing Khadijah (RA) and Ayesha (RA) as role models — and urged parents to empower their daughters through education and dignity. “If you have daughters, give them wings. Let them fly high in education and in honour.”
He also cited Shifa Bint Abdullah al-Adawiyya, who was a healer and scholar, and the second caliph of Islam Umar Al-Khattab would consult her for affairs related to trade market.
Speaking directly to the children, Zahack shared heartfelt advice on kindness, discipline, curiosity, and dreaming big. He narrated the story of a baby eagle that was raised in a chicken coop — unaware of its true potential, it spent its life clucking and pecking like a chicken, never realizing it was meant to soar. He urged the students to recognize their inner strength and greatness.
“Don’t let your surroundings limit your potential. You are meant to fly. Be like the eagle — not trapped among chickens,” he said, drawing applause and reflection from the audience.
The event also saw the felicitation of Zahack Tanvir by the school’s founder, Mr. Ismail Hadeesi, alongside other distinguished guests including Islamic scholars Shaykh Ibrahim Mohammedi, Shaykh Abdus-Samad Madani, educationist Mohammed Ateeq, and Mr. Mohammed Afsar Mohiuddin.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Hadeesi thanked the attendees, faculty, and parents for their unwavering support in nurturing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and changemakers.
The celebration was more than a graduation — it was a reflection of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of education in a world hungry for both knowledge and compassion.
