THE ROLE OF DARUL ULOOM DEOBAND IN THE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE SUBCONTINENT: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY

برصغیر کی تعلیمی ترقی میں دارالعلوم دیوبند کا کردار:ایک تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

This research article presents an analytical study of the role of Darul Uloom Deoband in the educational development of the Indian subcontinent. Founded on May 30, 1866, by Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotavi and Maulana Rashid Ahmad Gangohi, Darul Uloom Deoband emerged as a multifaceted movement rather than merely a religious seminary. The study employs a historical-analytical methodology.The research identifies that Deoband served a dual purpose: outwardly an educational institution, but inwardly a resistance movement against British colonialism. Maulana Nanotavi himself stated that "education was a veil over the real objective" of freedom struggle. The study examines Deoband's educational innovations including the introduction of Urdu as medium of instruction, the public donation system, and modern organizational structure.The findings reveal that while Deoband successfully preserved Muslim identity and created a parallel educational system, contemporary madrasas have drifted from the founders' original vision. Current institutions focus solely on traditional teaching while ignoring the political and social consciousness emphasized by Sheikh-ul-Hind Maulana Mahmood-ul-Hasan. The study recommends curricular reforms, inclusion of the founders' writings, and revival of the holistic approach that combines religious education with social engagement. Deoband's legacy remains relevant as a model of how educational institutions can serve both academic and national liberation purposes