Cassam Uteem on Mauritian identity and Assad Bhuglah's new book, "Community Identity in Multicultural Society

The launch of Assad Bhuglah's book, "Community Identity in Multicultural Society," prefaced by former President Cassam Uteem, has sparked discussion on the multiple identities of Mauritians. Uteem describes Mauritians as inherently multicultural beings, cultural hybrids with intertwined identities. Bhuglah, a prolific author and columnist, emphasizes that communities are not mere administrative constructs but lived realities rooted in history, culture, religion, language, and shared experiences. His book is a sociocultural and sociopsychological essay that delves into identity, community belonging, nationalism, and religion, with a focus on the Mauritian Muslim community. Uteem highlights Bhuglah's ability to combine rigorous research with narrative talent, linking individual trajectories to broader social contexts. Bhuglah's work has brought to light figures such as Dr. Idrice Ameer Goumany and Dr. Hasssenjee Joomaye. Uteem explains that community identity is built around factors like culture, ethnicity, language, and religion, offering social and emotional support. He discusses the Islamic concept of Ummah, a global Muslim community united by faith, which encourages dialogue and cooperation rather than isolation. He also mentions Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, as an expression of social justice. Uteem draws parallels with Amin Maalouf's "Deadly Identities," warning against reductive views of identity and advocating for an inclusive approach that recognizes multipl