Encounters with Ikram Brelvi

The first time I met Ikram Brelvi and his family, I felt as if I had known them for years. They welcomed me with open arms and open hearts and showered me with affection. I felt so much at home that I visited them frequently for a number of years. As I got to know...

Islam or Secular Humanism?

This talk was given in the context of a debate organized by the Muslim Students Association of the University of Western Ontario, on March 9th 2011, titled: Islam or Secular Humanism? The debate featured Hamza Tzortzis, a Muslim scholar from England and Dr Khalid...

Religious Morality / Secular Ethics

After my lecture in the Humanist Association of Toronto last month, one of the ladies present asked me, “If you do not believe in God, prophets, religions, divine revelations and day of judgment, then as atheists, agnostics, freethinkers and humanists, where do you...

Historical Meeting

When Irfan invited me to attend a historical meeting, I had no idea that it would be such a memorable encounter. He did not give me any details as he wanted it to be a surprise. When I arrived at the airport, he was there to receive me. He took me to his home, we had...

Peace Makers

Peace MakersWhile in every community, country and culture, there are people who have violent consciousness and create conflict and war, there are others who promote harmony and peace. Some of them create peace in their families, schools and local communities, while...

Honour Killing of Women

There are killings and there are honour killings. There are killings by your rival tribes and there are killings by your family members. There are murders by your enemies and there are murders by your relatives. There are murders by people who hate you and there are...