On 24 May 2026, Lajna Imaillah (Ahmadi Muslim Women’s Auxiliary), Hyderabad, organised an Interfaith Symposium on the theme “The Role of Women in Spreading Interfaith Harmony”. The event was chaired by Seema Javed Sahiba, Acting President of Lajna Imaillah Hyderabad, and brought together distinguished guests, social activists, educators, community leaders, and members of the public to discuss the significant role women play in fostering peace, mutual respect, and understanding among diverse communities.

Opening the programme, Shumaila Khizar Sahiba warmly welcomed the dignitaries, guests, and participants and highlighted the importance and objectives of the symposium. The formal session began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Shafi Shireen Sahiba.

This was followed by a poem recited by Saba Un Nasr Sahiba, emphasising the themes of unity, compassion, and peaceful coexistence. Naseera Arif Sahiba, Secretary for Education, Lajna Imaillah Hyderabad, then delivered the keynote address in English, highlighting the pivotal role women undertake in promoting interfaith harmony. Her speech focused on the contributions of women as educators, nurturers, and leaders in fostering understanding and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths. To ensure wider accessibility, the keynote address was also presented in Telugu by Quddus Naseem Sahiba, enabling a broader audience to connect with the message.

A documentary was then screened, introducing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and highlighting the contributions of Ahmadi Muslim women in the fields of education, social welfare, community service, and moral development.

The event was honoured to have Dr Bhupender Kaur, a distinguished medical practitioner, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (UK), human rights advocate, and specialist in Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology, as its Chief Guest. In her address, she spoke about the importance of women’s empowerment, education, mental well-being, and the role of women in building inclusive and compassionate communities. Her inspiring address encouraged participants to actively contribute towards social harmony and human development.

The symposium was further enriched by insightful speeches from other distinguished guests. Mrs V. Veena Goud, Founder of Mitra Foundation and Nyaya Sethu Mediation and a TSLSA-trained mediator, spoke about the invaluable role of women, particularly mothers, in shaping future generations. She also introduced the work of the Mitra Foundation, which provides a safe and supportive environment where women and children can openly share their concerns, receive guidance, and find emotional support.

Prof Sujatha Surepally, Head of the Department of Sociology at Satavahana University and a noted social justice advocate, delivered a thought-provoking address on women’s empowerment and social transformation. She emphasised the importance of education, equality, and the active participation of women in nation-building.

Mrs Habeeb Unnisa, President of MAA Old Age Home, Shastripuram, shared her experiences and spoke about her efforts to provide care and shelter for individuals facing homelessness, family abandonment, alcoholism, and other social challenges. She highlighted how such initiatives help vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Mrs A. Suma Latha, Board Member of the Red Cross Society, Hyderabad, addressed the audience and highlighted the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women to society and community development.

Mrs Shaheen, Focus School Incharge, shared her reflections on the symposium, expressing her appreciation for the event and its message of unity, understanding, and interfaith cooperation.

As a token of appreciation, all distinguished guests were presented with gift hampers containing a selection of Ahmadiyya literature.

In the vote of thanks, my humble self expressed sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, participants, and volunteers for their valuable presence and contributions, which helped make the symposium a meaningful and successful event.

The programme concluded with silent prayers, followed by dinner, providing an opportunity for guests and participants to interact, exchange ideas, and strengthen bonds of sisterhood, friendship, and mutual understanding.

The symposium ended on a positive note, reaffirming the vital role women play in promoting interfaith harmony, social cohesion, and lasting peace within society.