Kannur, KERALA :

Kannur:

On a January evening, the busy town square of Kannur changed in a big way.  Usually, the square is crowded with people rushing about their daily work. But on this day, it became a calm and welcoming space. People slowed down, reflected, and spoke with one another. They discussed daily habits, shared ideas, learned about different cultures, and understood what others believe in.

This transformation happened because the CONNECTA Cultural Exhibition was inaugurated. The event was organised by the Dialogue Centre Kerala.

A Call to Kindness and Togetherness

The inauguration was not a routine ceremony. It was a strong message inviting people to show kindness and build unity. CONNECTA reminded everyone that all human beings are connected in many ways. This message is especially important today, when people often focus more on differences than shared values.

CONNECTA highlighted common issues, lifestyles, and moral values that unite people, regardless of faith, culture, or background.

CONNECTA is built on three key ideas: Faith, Culture, and Dialogue. These elements can help heal divisions in society. The organisers carefully selected displays that encouraged visitors to reflect and engage in meaningful conversations. Alongside this, the exhibition included many cultural activities that brought people together.

Every display in CONNECTA carried a clear message: faith and culture should unite people, not separate them. The exhibition emphasised that belief systems and traditions are meant to build understanding and harmony.

We live in a world where disagreements are common and often lead to conflict. CONNECTA offers a hopeful vision. It encourages people to recognise differences, respect them, and even celebrate them. According to CONNECTA, diversity is not a weakness; it is what makes us truly human and is something to value.

Message from Ms. A. Rahmathunnissa

Ms. A. Rahmathunnissa, National Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and Executive Member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, addressed the gathering. She spoke about the deep importance of the exhibition’s theme and thanked everyone who worked together to make CONNECTA possible.

She began by highlighting the disturbing patterns that exist in today’s society. She noted that messages of disconnection, isolation, and separation are being heard again and again, shaping attitudes in ways that lead people to demonise one another, push others to the margins, and cut themselves off from the collective. In such a context, the call to connect people becomes not just relevant, but essential. Rebuilding bonds, restoring trust, and bringing people together is the urgent need of our time.

She pointed out that people today are growing increasingly distant from one another. In such times, exhibitions like CONNECTA are deeply needed, as they help rebuild human connections and strengthen relationships. CONNECTA, she said, reminds us to care for one another and to restore lost bonds.

CONNECTA as a Way of Life

Ms. Rahmathunnissa explained that CONNECTA represents a way of living. It encourages personal responsibility, peaceful coexistence, and moral awareness. CONNECTA serves as a guide for ethical and spiritual living, teaching people how to act with integrity and live in harmony with others.

She described CONNECTA as a path rooted in responsibility, social balance, and moral consciousness – principles that can help people lead meaningful lives.

Ms. Rahmathunnissa expanded CONNECTA as an acronym and explained its meaning as

C – Contemplate the signs of God in the universe

She encouraged people to reflect on nature, culture, and humanity. The variety we see in the world is a sign of God’s wisdom. Diversity is not accidental; it is part of the Creator’s design. Differences in creation reflect God’s intention and should be appreciated.

O – Open hearts to compassion and empathy

True faith, she said, softens the heart. It helps people feel compassion for others. Compassion allows us to see others not as strangers, but as fellow travellers sharing the same journey of life.

N – Nurture relationships with all creatures

Human beings have a duty to care for everyone, not just those close to them. Every person, animal, and living being deserves kindness and respect. Caring for the Earth and its creatures is a core human responsibility.

N – Navigate the path of balance and harmony

Extremes can damage communities. Balance creates unity. Harmony grows when justice, mercy, and wisdom work together. This balance strengthens society and brings people closer.

E – Embrace the interconnectedness of all things

No one lives in isolation. Each person’s life is linked to others. Communities thrive because of these connections, even when we are not always aware of them.

C – Cultivate gratitude and mindfulness

Gratitude keeps people aware of what truly matters. Mindfulness reminds us that our words and actions have consequences. Together, gratitude and awareness help people act responsibly and thoughtfully.

T – Transmit love, peace, and kindness

These values are not just beliefs; they must be practised. People must actively live these values and share them through their actions every day.

A – Awaken to our role as ambassadors of God on Earth.

Being ambassadors of Allah, it is our duty to consider everyone and take everyone together.

A Timely and Lasting Message

Ms. Rahamathunnisa expressed hope that CONNECTA would inspire people to practise kindness and responsibility. The exhibition encourages gratitude toward the Creator and care for one another.

CONNECTA promotes dialogue, shared values, empathy, and understanding – qualities essential for harmony in a diverse society. By encouraging connection over isolation and compassion over fear, CONNECTA calls on humanity to honour one another and the Creator who gave life to all.

[The writer is Assistant Secretary, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Media In-Charge Women’s Department]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Rabia Basri / February 06th, 2026