Some time back, I read this book called Letters that Changed the World by Simone Sebag. It’s a collection of letters - some from centuries ago, others more recent - that somehow changed the human affairs, whether in war or peace, art or culture. Some letters were intended to act as publicity, some to remain absolutely secret.

One such letter from the book that I wanted to share with you is a letter written by Babur, to his son Humayun, in 1529. At age 45, shortly before his death, Emperor Babur writes this beautiful letter sharing his wisdom with his son, who had just ascended the throne.

Oh my son!

The realm of Hindustan is full of diverse creeds. Praise be to God, the Righteous, the Glorious, the Highest, that He hath granted unto thee the Empire of it. It is but proper that you, with heart cleansed of all religious bigotry, should dispense justice according to the tenets of each community. And in particular refrain from the sacrifice of cow, for that way lies the conquest of the hearts of the people of Hindustan; and the subjects of the realm will, through royal favour, be devoted to thee. And the temples and abodes of worship of every community under Imperial sway, you should not damage. Dispense justice so that the sovereign may be happy with the subjects and likewise the subjects with their sovereign. The progress of Islam is better by the sword of kindness, not by the sword of oppression.

Ignore the disputations of Shias and Sunnis; for therein is the weakness of Islam. And bring together the subjects with different beliefs in the manner of the Four Elements, so that the body-politic may be immune from the various ailments. And remember the deeds of Hazrat Taimur Sahib Qiran so that you may become mature in matters of Government. And on us is but the duty to advise.

There is something beautiful about reading letters written centuries ago. Knowing that even in those times, people were just the same. That they wanted the same things as we do; that quintessentially their hearts sought love and peace, just like ours. And even the great emperors, at times, were doting fathers who loved their sons as much (read how he starts the letter - Oh my son! - as if tightly hugging him first before he began)

What struck me most about this letter was the timelessness of his advice - his plea for love, peace, and tolerance. It is so relevant even today, not just in India but also in the wider Islamic world. This could easily have been advice from the last prime minister to the next.

As we celebrate this day, let’s pray that we gain independence from all bigotry, narrow-mindedness, and disputations; and find strength in our diversity.

Happy 74th Independence Day! Let’s wave our flags and be proud today.

Best,
Kaddy

On Privilege

The Thing About Apple