Reclaiming the Self: A Study of The Reluctant Fundamentalist Through the Lens of Allama Iqbal's Dynamic Islam

Abstract

This research investigates Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist through the perspective of Allama Iqbal’s concept of Dynamic Islam, as enunciated in ‘The Reconstruction of Religious Thoughts in Islam.’ It explores the self-realization journey of Changez that mirrors Iqbalsìs concept of Khudi, intellect and spiritual revival, and the necessity for a progressive and dynamic Islam. Changez’s transformative journey from a Westernized worker to a self-conscious Pakistani academic reflects the vision of Khudi, accentuating mindfulness with an elevated purpose. The book’s critique of Western materialism goes side by side with the warning of Iqbal regarding the spiritual decay prompted by high interest for materialism, while the interconnectedness of Changez with modernity mirrors Iqbal’s whispers for Muslims to adjust meticulously to the present day challenges. The novel’s post-9/11 context further brings forward the relevancy of ideas of Iqbal in addressing the issues of identity and cultural marginalization in the globalized and digitalized world. By relating Iqbal’s philosophy to this novel, this research bridged the Islamic intellectual traditions and literature, offering a unique perspective on The Reluctant Fundamentalist. It emphasizes the enduring relevance of Iqbalian thought in current literature and continuous struggle for self-consciousness, spiritual growth and intellectual independence. This paper contributes to an in-depth understanding of Muslim experience in the modernized world, bringing forth the universal search for purpose and meaning in the times of cultural conflict and globalization.