The Khilafat Movement

The Khilafat Movement (1919-1924) was a political campaign launched by Indian Muslims to protect the Ottoman Caliphate, considered a spiritual authority for Muslims worldwide. After World War I, the victorious Allies threatened to dismantle the Caliphate, which deeply disturbed Indian Muslims. They mobilized to urge the British government to preserve it, viewing its loss as a threat to Islamic unity and identity. The movement also aimed to oppose British policies in India, fostering cooperation between Muslims and Hindus. While ultimately unsuccessful in saving the Caliphate, it played a significant role in galvanizing Muslim political activism and contributed to India's independence movement.