from the pen of Ibrahim Nisar Khalil (ink)…

Keeping a Topi is an essential part of the Sunnah (code of conduct) for men. It provides a sense of identity for a Muslim, in his appearance as a follower of Islam.

The aspect of the Topi for men can be compared with that of Pardah (veil) for woman in Islam. As women are required to observe Pardah in and outside the house, however different in its way while at home or out _ by which she produces the effect of modesty and a symbol of protection in her outlook. Likewise, men are bestowed with the observance of wearing a Topi as an essential accessory with their dress, whereby he distinguishes himself from the nonbelievers and renders respect and integrity in his social posture.

 In 1905, when Allama Iqbal left for Britain for higher education, he would wear the English Hat as was the social norm by the educated class in those days. 

One day when buying a cigarette from a Muslim shopkeeper. He told him that he was also a Muslim. The shopkeeper, however paying no heed replied with an inquisitive look that why then he was wearing a hat. “Does Islam perish with the hat?” Iqbal justified. “But how can then one recognize a Muslim if he shaves his beard and does not wear a Turkish Topi!” the shopkeeper replied. This, Iqbal considered, as an undeniable fact and became more indulgent in conversation with the shopkeeper. Later on other co religious persons gather around them and all of a sudden an eastern gathering was created in that Cigarette shop.

Ibrahim