In North Karnataka, a 55-year-old Muslim teacher named Shakeel Ahmed Moulasab Angadi has dedicated 26 years to teaching Sanskrit. Angadi's journey was inspired by a Swamiji, and he seamlessly integrates the ancient language into his daily life while also honoring his Islamic traditions at home.

Angadi's commitment to Sanskrit goes beyond the classroom. He sees the language as a bridge that connects people and cultures, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. By teaching Sanskrit, he hopes to promote communal harmony and demonstrate that learning transcends religious boundaries.

Angadi's story stands in contrast to other instances where Muslim teachers of Sanskrit have faced opposition. In 2019, Feroz Khan, a Muslim scholar, was appointed as an assistant professor of Sanskrit literature at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). However, some right-wing Hindu students protested, claiming that a Muslim could not teach Sanskrit, a language closely associated with Hinduism. Despite the university's support and condemnation from many, Khan temporarily left the university.

Similarly, Assistant Professor Sheikh Sabir Ali, a gold medalist in Sanskrit from Kolkata University, expressed shock at the opposition to Firoz Khan's appointment. He emphasized that religious identity should not be a barrier in academics and that students should welcome Khan for his academic merit.

However, not all experiences have been negative. In 2019, Ramzan Ali was selected as an Assistant Professor of Sanskrit at Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira in Belur. He reported a warm welcome from both students and faculty members, highlighting that his religious identity was not a barrier to his work.

These varied experiences highlight the complex relationship between language, religion, and identity in India. While some individuals and groups hold exclusionary views, others embrace the idea of cross-cultural learning and exchange. Advocates of inclusivity argue that languages do not belong to any particular religion and that learning each other's languages promotes understanding and harmony.

Shakeel Ahmed Moulasab Angadi's 26-year commitment to teaching Sanskrit serves as an inspiring example of how one person can bridge divides and promote communal harmony through education. His dedication demonstrates that a passion for learning and a commitment to inclusivity can overcome religious barriers and foster a deeper understanding between communities.