Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Launches the Book 'Miracle at Haifa' at the Bahá’í House of Worship

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Launches the Book Miracle at Haifa at the Bahai House of Worship

New Delhi, July 22, 2026: ‘Miracle at Haifa’, a book authored by Major Chandrakant Singh, was released on the 22nd of July, 2026 by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India at the Information Centre of the Bahá’í House of Worship (Lotus Temple), New Delhi.

The event was organized by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of India and attended by distinguished guests, military personnel, members of the diplomatic and cultural communities, scholars, media representatives, and friends of the Bahá’í community.

The programme commenced with remarks by Ms. Nazneen Rowhani, Secretary-General of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of India, who spoke about the historical significance of the Battle of Haifa and its place in the shared history of India and the Holy Land. She also highlighted the station of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the son of Bahá’u’lláh and Head of the Bahá’í Faith following His Father’s passing, whose life was dedicated to the promotion of peace, unity, and service to humanity. Ms. Rowhani noted that the events surrounding the Battle of Haifa and the protection of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá continue to hold deep significance in India and globally.

While ‘Miracle at Haifa’ recounts the historic Battle of Haifa of 1918, which played a significant role in shaping the course of history, the book extends beyond the battlefield. It also narrates how the safety of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during a period of great upheaval in the region and explores India’s enduring historical, spiritual, and cultural connections with the Bahá’í Faith.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat underscored the global significance of the Battle of Haifa, observing, “This battle is studied globally across military and defense training institutions as an essential case study. Far beyond being just a story of valour, this battle holds a much deeper significance.” He noted that the book brings to light not only an extraordinary military achievement but also a story of courage, service, and humanity that continues to inspire generations.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the book, Major Chandrakant Singh said, “Besides the Battle of Haifa, this book is about the shared cultural and spiritual roots of Indians with the people of Persia, Mesopotamia and Palestine.” He noted that ‘Miracle at Haifa’ explores not only a remarkable military victory but also the life and mission of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the historical and spiritual ties that have connected India with the wider region for generations.

The ceremonial launch of the book was followed by a cultural programme featuring Kathak and Rajasthani folk performances by artists from Rajasthan, celebrating India’s rich artistic traditions.