Irfan Pathan sends signed bats to Muslim moot

WASHINGTON: Indian test cricketer Irfan Pathan has sent a number of autographed bats to a convention of Indian Muslims being held in Chicago this weekend.

In a message sent to the 7th annual convention of the Indian Muslim Council (IMC), the Indian test star, who is the son of an imam, said, “First of all please accept my hearty congratulations for making such an endeavour to inculcate the ideology of universal brotherhood, plural thinking and mutual respect and tolerance with various religions and beliefs. Please convey my wholehearted support and good wishes for this Noble thought and movement to all those who share it.” Pathan’s gesture has won much praise from his many Indian Muslim fans, including members of the Chicago area Gujarati Muslim Association of America.

One Association member said, “It is exciting to know that Irfan Pathan’s autographed bats are available at the IMC’s annual convention in Chicago.

It is evidence of how a sport like cricket can teach us that communal harmony is fundamental to India’s success whether it be in sports or another aspect of society.”

The convention will bring together Muslim activists and leaders of the Indian diaspora from all backgrounds. Separate sessions are being devoted to human rights and updates on the struggle to get justice for the victims of the “Gujarat genocide.” There also will be a session on female empowerment and “women as the worst victims of communal violence.” khalid hasan

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