We’re looking forward to introducing you to Khawaja Azimuddin. Check out our conversation below.
Khawaja, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Organizing the annual Islamic Arts Festival at the University of Houston. Since I started this festival 12 years ago, it has grown exponentially and now it’s the largest festival of Islamic arts in America. It gives me great joy to see the festival grow and attract more than 5000 people from all walks of life.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a colon & rectal surgeon by profession. When I am not in the operating theater, I am connecting with artists and art lovers. I love bringing everyone together and presenting the annual arts festival at the University of Houston. It is the largest festival of Islamic arts in America, with more than fifty artists showcasing their unique work at the event. The festival showcases nearly 5,000 pieces of Islamic art under one roof, and also features a comedy show, music program, academic seminar, spoken word program, and a film festival. We have special art activities for children and even art workshops for those interested in learning Islamic Arts
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Becoming a refugee after the 1971 India-Pakistan war, which led to the independence of Bangladesh. I realized every party lost a lot, and the triumph of one nation was a disaster for the other. In the end, the ordinary people sacrificed and suffered. I learned that no one wins in a war and every party pays heavily with the lives of their loved ones. Ultimately, all human beings must come to learn to live together through peace and mutual respect.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Having lost my home and friends as a result of war in my childhood. Struggling to keep alive in a refugee camp for two years. I realized this was the end result of people fighting for their perceived rights. People kept to their kind and feared the “others”. I realized that distrust and animosity grew because people were not talking to each other and not understanding each other’s point of view. I felt these wounds could be healed by communicating and respecting each others right to exist
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe we can coexist if we have mutual respect and understanding. We need to bring people together and build bridges between communities. With that in mind, I felt the best way to bring people together is through art. Art is a universal language and everyone admires something beautiful. That is why I started the Islamic Arts Festival, which brings people of all faiths and ethnicities for two days of fun and festivity.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
They would remember me as someone who brought people and artists together through art. I hope my Islamic Arts Festival continues long after I am gone and continues to bring together people for fun and festivity, mingling and camaraderie
Contact Info:
- Website: https://islamicartssociety.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islamicartssociety/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/islamic-arts-society-festival/?viewAsMember=true
- Twitter: https://x.com/ArtsIslami47609
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IslamicArtsSociety
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@islamicartssociety2418
