Sarcouncil Journal of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences

Abstract: During the late 19th century, British colonialism spurred significant transformations across South Asia. In Sri Lanka, Tamil-speaking Muslims urgently required social reform and educational advancement to navigate colonial power, Christian missionary efforts, and internal stagnation. The establishment of M.C. Siddi Lebbe's Muslim Nesan newspaper in 1882 marked a crucial turning point in this Muslim renaissance. This research investigates how Muslim Nesan served as a voice for marginalized communities, simultaneously acting as a catalyst for intellectual illumination, cultural revitalization, and political awareness among Muslims in sri Lanka . A historical thematic analysis of the newspaper reveals its profound impact on reshaping contemporary Muslim identity. Functioning as an essential platform between 1882 and 1889, Muslim Nesan ignited a social and religious awakening within the Muslim community. Under M.C. Siddi Lebbe's leadership, the 48 published issues championed Muslim upliftment through educational reform, social progress, religious restoration, and resistance against colonial rule and missionary interference. By actively promoting community identity and resisting cultural erosion, the newspaper fostered an embrace of modern knowledge integrated with Islamic values. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study primarily analyzes secondary data, including extant issues of Muslim Nesan and relevant historical and cultural publications. Through descriptive analysis, the research examines key thematic areas, highlighting the newspaper's contribution to Muslim community identity and resistance to colonial influence. The concluding discussion reflects on these findings and proposes avenues for future research on media-driven social movements within historical Muslim societies.