Art, activism unite Kerala’s Malappuram against war in West Asia

Two contrasting protests unfolded in Malappuram on Sunday in response to the US-Israel attack on Iran and the escalating tensions in West Asia.

While the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) held a street demonstration condemning the strikes, Madin Academy, a Malappuram-based educational and social institution that integrates conventional Islamic studies with modern academics and community service initiatives, chose a quieter cultural expression of dissent.

Madin Academy hosted a day-long Badr storytelling programme, offering reflection instead of rhetoric.

SDPI activists taking out a demonstration at Malappuram on Sunday, condemning US-Israel attack on Iran.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN

Held in collaboration with the All Kerala Quissa Pattu Association, the event drew inspiration from the historic Battle of Badr, fought in AD 624. The organisers said that the programme was not a celebration of war, but a reminder of its consequences. “We joined hands not to glorify conflict, but to remind people of its dangers,” said C.K. Khalid Saqafi, one of the coordinators.

Beginning at 6.30 a.m. and concluding at 6.30 p.m., the programme featured 16 storytellers and centred on Badar Padappattu, the Mappilapattu epic by Moyinkutty Vaidyar. Through verse and narration, the performers reflected on sacrifice, faith and the human cost of conflict.

“War yields nothing but bloodshed and sorrow; the conflicts that shatter the promise of a beautiful tomorrow must come to an end,” said Madin Academy director Noufal Kodur.

Inaugurating the programme, Mappilapattu researcher Faisal Elettil spoke about the unifying power of art, stessing its ability to bring humanity together beyond divisions.

Meanwhile, inaugurating the march, SDPI district vice president Sadik Naduthodi criticised the US policy and Israel’s actions. He alleged that American imperialism had long sought to subdue nations that resist its dictates and described Israel as a state born of imperialist conspiracy and occupation.

Mr. Naduthodi also voiced concern for migrant workers in the Gulf and their families, saying they were gripped by anxiety amid the unfolding crisis.