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Hadhrat Molana
Sayyid Siddique Ahmad Bandwi RA
His legacy and its effects
Hazrat Molana Muhammad Zakaria Sanbhali
(Sheikhul Hadith, Darul uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow, India)
English translation:
Usman Maljee BSc. (Hons) MCOptom
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Translators note
I first came to learn of Hadhrat Molana Sayyid Siddique Sahib
RA from the discourses and conversations with Hadhrat
Molana Yahya Nomani Sahib on his tours of the UK. I was
immediately struck with awe and very humbled to learn of such
a personality as Molana Siddique RA in our modern times.
Even after his demise listening and reading about him is very
spiritually uplifting, Allah knows best how strong ones iman
would be if they were fortunate to meet him in person.
Alhamdulillah my family is fortunate to have a close
relationship with Hadhrat Molana Yahya Nomani Sahib.
During Ramadhan of 2010, Molana Yahya Nomani Sahib
gifted my brother Molana Imran Maljee the Urdu version of
this book and mentioned a translation of this book would be
nice. I was eager to read this book but had to wait for Molana
Imran to finish reading it first. A year had passed and Molana
Imran had still not read the book, nor was he prepared to loan
me the book. Getting a book from an alim is no easy pursuit.
The following Ramadhan (2011) I complained in jest to
Molana Yahya Sahib that Molana Imran has not read the book
he had gifted nor has allowed me to read it. Molana Yahya
Sahib laughed and gifted me a copy too, and requested me to
pen down a translation.
I was extremely honoured to have been delegated this task,
hoping it to be an opportunity to earn rewards for the hereafter.
If I remember correctly it was during October 2010 I began the
work of translating this book. I completed just less than half the
book in a short space of time, but a computer mishap and other
preoccupations meant I could not complete the translation in
the anticipated time. The year seemed be to passing very
quickly with Ramadhan (2012) was approaching. It occurred to
me how I will face Molana Yahya Sahib if the translation is not
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complete. I made a firm intention to complete the work before
the end of Ramadhan (2012).
Alhamdulillah the translation was completed on the 26th
Ramadhan 1433 (14th
August, 2012). Those who would like to
learn more about Hadhrat’s life are encouraged to read the
biography of Hadhrat Molana Siddique RA ‘Hayat e Siddique’
by Mufti Zaid Mazhari Sahib which has been translated to
English. The honourable readers are requested to remember me
in their duas.
Usman Ayub Maljee
BSc. (Hons) MCOptom
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Foreword
On the 28th
of August, 1997, at 10:25 am, the tragic loss of
Molana Sayyid Siddique Ahmad sahib RA took place.
Although the September edition of Al Furqan had already been
submitted for publishing, I made great effort to ensure the news
of Hadhrat’s demise, and request for duas to be published in
that edition.
For the October’s edition, this humble servant of Hazrat wrote
an article, in an attempt to portray only those aspects of
Hadhrat’s life which I have seen myself, or heard directly from
Hadhrat personally, and which would be of great benefit to
those who are connected to day to day life in darul ulooms, or
to those whom at any level have been given the ability to serve
the deen.
It is for this reason I have kept the heading of this article, “His
memories I remember abundantly”. The article was not
intended in any way to be a biography of Hadhrat’s life, nor
was it possible in this brief article to include all of Hadhrat’s
uniqueness, virtues and great work.
When the October’s edition of Al Furqan was published, it was
well received and largely appreciated by its readers, and within
days the Al Furqan office had sold every copy, even though
more copies were printed this month than usual.
Whatever has been written in this article does not have the
slightest amount of embellishment. I have written in the most
simple manner the incidents and sayings of Hadhrat.
Hadhrat’s stories were such, that whoever had read the article
could not hold back their tears. Some pious individuals,
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friends, close relatives, their wives and children also report of
shedding tears as they were reading the article.
There were a large number of people who wanted to learn
about Hadhrat’s life and eagerly awaited this edition of Al
Furqan. The only way the office of Al Furqan could fulfil the
rising demands of the ardent readers was to publish the article
in the form of a booklet. Alhamdulillah two editions of this
booklet were printed within a few months.
Thereafter I wrote another article in the January 2000 edition of
Al Furqan which was the second in the series of articles.
Alhamdulillah this was also as effective as the first one and it
will be the second article of this booklet.
A well known journal in Lucknow had written about Hadhrat
Molana Siddique Ahmad RA, which included this humble
servant’s two part article. When this journal intended to write a
further article about Hadhrat, upon their request I wrote a third
article “Hadhrat Molana Sayyid Siddique Ahmad in the eyes of
non Muslims”
This booklet now includes these three articles. It is requested
that whenever possible please make regular dua for Hadhrat,
and make efforts to take lesson from whatever that has been
written. May Allah also grant me the ability to do this. Ameen.
Mohammad Zakariya Sanbhli
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Part one
My first meeting with Hadhrat and my service at his
madrassa
I had known about Hadhrat Molana Sayyid Siddique sahib RA
very early on in my student life. During my second or third
year of studies I left my hometown Sanbhal for further studies.
My respected uncle Hadhrat Molana Muhammad Manzoor
Nomani RA had suggested the names of two madrassa, first, a
madrassa in Bahraich called ‘Noorul Uloom’, and second, the
madrassa of Hadhrat Molana Sayyid Siddique Ahmad RA,
‘Jamea Islamiyya’, of Hatohra, in the district of Banda. Due to
certain preferences it was decided for me to go to madrassa
Noorul Uloom.
Hadhrat RA was often mentioned at Noorul Uloom and for our
examination of Sullamul Uloom and Mukhtasar Al Ma’nee,
Hadhrat had written the test paper and they were sent to him
for marking. This was the only knowledge I had of Hadhrat and
his madrassa. On some occasions my respected uncle Hadhrat
Molana Nomani RA would mention Hadhrat’s Taqwa,
sincerity and simplicity.
After studying Mukhtasar Al Ma’nee and Sharah Wiqaya at
Noorul Uloom, I went to Darul Uloom Deoband. I studied
there for three years and then enrolled for takhasus fil adab
(Higher studies of Arabic literature) at Darul Uloom Nadwatul
Ulama.
There were a few months left for examinations during the
second year of my studies at Nadwa, a Tablighi ijtema was
held in the masjid of Nadwa which was attended by Hadhrat. I
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saw some people greeting an individual at the southern door of
the masjid. I was informed by someone that this is Molana
Siddique Sahib of Banda. Whatever my respected uncle
Molana Nomani RA had told me about Hadhrat RA was
embedded in my heart, and based on this I had great respect for
Hadhrat RA. I met Hadhrat and may have been introduced as
well.
After a short while that very same day I went to the Darul
Uloom Nadwatul Ulama’s book depot to meet my close friend,
Hafiz SameeAllah, who was at the time in charge of the book
depot. As soon as I step foot into the library I saw Hadhrat who
had also come to see him. I made salaam, to which he replied,
and immediately without any introduction Hafiz SameeAllah
said “Hadhrat take him”. I think Hadhrat was in search of a
teacher. Thus Hafiz jee had introduced me to Hadhrat.
Hadhrat said, “Brother, he (Molana Zakariya) is a high ranking
person, how is he going to come to our madrassa”. Without
any control over my tongue I said, “I am half way in the year
of my studies, if it is your request, I will discontinue my studies
immediately and accompany you”. Hadhrat said “complete
your studies, and come the next year”. Msha Allah, this was a
turning point in my life. This is what you call heavenly fate.
Today was my first meeting and today Allah decided for my
closeness with Hadhrat.
At the end of the academic year, when I was going from
Lucknow to my native town Sanbhal, my respected uncle
Hadhrat Molana Nomani RA enquired about my future plans. I
informed him of my meeting with Hadhrat RA and our
conversation. My late Uncle said “Molana is one of ours; I will
write to him and remind him”.
Fifteen or twenty days later I received a letter from my
respected uncle RA. It contained a summary of his
correspondence with Hadhrat which read, “You had a
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conversation with Zakariya, if you are in need of a teacher; he
will present himself for khidmah. But no one should be
removed to make space for him”.
Hadhrat’s reply was also included in the letter; in brief Hadhrat
wrote “Zakariya is most welcome to teach here, however the
following deficiencies are present in our madrassa: the
madrassa is in a village, comforts of the city are not found here
at all, there is no electricity, there are no barbers, there are no
dhobis (clothes cleaner), there is no tea shop, the road up to the
madrassa is untarred, the houses are made of tile, the salary of
the teachers is fifty to sixty rupees and the kitchen facilities are
poor. The condition of my house is such that I cannot make
appropriate food arrangements.
My respected uncle RA having read the letter wrote in his letter
to me, “first it was my opinion, but having read Molana’s letter
I think it is for you to decide if you can stay at a place like
this”.
I understood from Hadhrat’s letter, maybe he is excusing
himself from my coming; however I wanted to begin a life of
teaching, and I had no other place to teach. I wrote to my late
uncle RA informing him that I have made a decision to teach at
Hadhrat’s madrassa.
Towards the end of Shawwal I left Sanbhal and went to
Lucknow, intending to go to Banda from there. Here I had to
pass through one more test. Hadhrat Molana Nomani RA
mentioned one another madrassa, where the monthly
allowance was two hundred and fifty rupees.
On one side Hadhrat’s taqwa and good actions are mentioned
to me, and on the other side I am told the salary at Hadhrat’s
madrassa is fifty to sixty rupees and the other madrassa with
two hundred and fifty rupees.
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However, Alhamdulillah, I made the decision to teach at
Hadhrat’s madrassa and approximately on the 26th
or 27th
Shawwal I went to Banda accompanied by Hafiz Iqbal Sahib
Gondwi. My respected uncle sent Hadhrat Hafiz sahib with me
for my guidance. Arriving at the madrassa I realised Hadhrat’s
honourable letter was true to every word.
At the time of my departure, my respected uncle RA gave some
advice, which proved to be of lifelong benefit. Hadhrat Molana
Nomani RA said “be of assistance to Molana in all of his
works, however do not get involved in the finances, initially a
person does not intend to be unfaithful, but certain
circumstances will leave one with no choice but to carry them
out in an unfaithful manner”. Alhamdulillah, I have derived
great benefit from this advice.
The second thing Hadhrat Molana Nomani RA had said “if
Hadhrat RA enquires from you as to which books you would
like to teach, using me as a reference, you should say you are
ready to teach those books that are beneficial and necessary for
the madrassa. But since you are asking me, my wish is to teach
the initial books of each subject, and one higher level book,
Hidaya or Sharah Wiqaya, so that competence from lower
level books continues to develop and the connection with
higher level books remain firm.
After arriving at the madrassa, Hadhrat kept me as a guest for
three days. Even upon my request of being excused as a guest,
Hadhrat said “you are here to teach anyway, take rest for two
three days”. In those three days, Hadhrat kept me with him at
all times, even when he had to go Banda. This was the first
occasion I was fortunate to receive such beautiful love and
compassion from Hadhrat. Alhamdulillah this remained
permanent throughout Hadhrat’s life and did not cease for even
one second.
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After three days I was allocated to teach the initial books of
every subject, and Sharah Wiqaya, first and second. However
the initial books were not of the types which are often regarded
as unimportant in madrassa’s. Only a few months of the first
year had lapsed and I was given some parts of Jalalayn to
teach, and in the second year I was given Tafseer Baydhawi to
teach. Thereafter the books given, continued to increase to the
higher levels.
It was only about my fourth or fifth year as a teacher, and I was
teaching Tafseer Baydhawi, Hidaya Akhirayn, Mishkat
(volume two), Fusool AKbari, and some other light hearted
books. Regarding the allocation of books Hadhrat had a special
kindness towards me. May be Hadhrat was thinking I would
not be able to stay here for long, and thus under his guidance
he wanted me to teach everything. It was purely for Hadhrat’s
khidmah my teaching here began. That is why on many
occasions I would without any formality I would ask and
receive guidance from Hadhrat.
Whenever I needed a solution to a text I would go and ask
Hadhrat. After I had left, he would tell the students “see, this is
how one should teach”. Hadhrat would not be content upon
this, and to ensure the students are not left with any negative
thoughts regarding my teaching ability, Hadhrat would call me
and ask the solution regarding a text in the presence of the
students. If I gave an answer, he would show extreme
happiness, and if my answer happened to be inadequate,
Hadhrat would explain the meaning and would confirm with
me if this was correct, he would then go on to say, “it is
because of your blessing that I understood this”.
I have never seen or heard of a madrassa principal like
Hadhrat. I will write another story of Hadhrat encouraging
respect towards me in his very words. I have never allowed the
good thoughts of others regarding me to overtake me. This
unintelligent one is well aware of his reality.
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I was in the gallery opposite Hadhrat’s room teaching Sharah
Wiqaya, when all of a sudden he came out of his room with
great speed, and began to praise my teaching in front of the
students, and exclaimed “I was wondering how you will solve
this difficult text, by Allah, what amazing interpretation you
have given, Molana! Pleas write this in your words,”. He then
kept on repeating “Molana! Pleas write this. It will assist me”.
Even now as I am writing this there are tears in my eyes.
I have never been able to nor can I ever compensate the favours
of Hadhrat. Alhamdulillah, without doubt, love and firm
respect of Hadhrat has always remained, and I have been able
to make dua for Hadhrat as well, may Allah maintain this
practice. There are numerous incidents of kindness and
affection Hadhrat has shown to this insignificant person.
After my teachers, Hadhrat has had a great input in the
development of my teaching and learning as a result of the
many favours shown upon me. Hadhrat kindness and affection
was akin to all teachers, however this was concealed, one knew
very little of the favours conferred on others, hence each
person thought Hadhrat shows me the most love.
All of the teachers at the madrassa in every aspect were much
younger than Hadhrat. Hadhrat would however respect and
serve everyone. If any of the teachers delayed visiting Hadhrat
to collect their allowance, then Hadhrat himself would take it
to their house and give it.
When Hadhrat would go to Banda, he would ask the teachers,
“I am going to Banda, are there any errands that need to be
done?” this question was so sincere, some teachers would
inform Hadhrat the errands that need doing, and Hadhrat would
carry them out.
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Many occasions when Hadhrat would return from Banda, he
would come to my room and call me very quietly and say”I
went to Banda and have bought this for you”. Amongst the
things he used to bring were, seasonal fruits and sometimes
sweets. The above practice mentioned must have been met with
other teachers too, but I only have knowledge of the kindness
and affection shown to me.
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Hadhrat initial studies
On many occasions Hadhrat would narrate the story about his
early learning, he would say, “my teacher, who taught Hifzul
Quran in the village masjid, had only memorised seven or
eight paras of the Quran. When I had also memorised that
many paras, he said to me “son, go out of the village to study
somewhere, I can only teach you this much”.
Hadhrat was very young when his father passed away so his
late mother made the arrangements for Hadhrat to go and study
in Kanpur. His mother gave him some dry bread and may be
some roasted chick peas to take with him. Hadhrat did not take
meals from the madrassa, either there were no arrangements
for food at the madrassa or Hadhrat did not prefer to receive
food, this detail I do not remember. For a few days Hadhrat
lived on the food he had brought with him. When this had
exhausted, Allah (SWT) made arrangement of one meal per
day in the following way.
A teacher from Kanpur said “Siddique! Fill up water from the
municipal well and bring it to my house, you will get one
meal”. The teacher’s house was situated on the roof top,
Hadhrat used to carry two buckets of water up the stairs.
Hadhrat used to say “I would to stand at the centre of the
staircase and cry, but there was no other alternative”. In twenty
four hours only one meal was taken, however for the
development Hadhrat Allah had agreed for further arduous
reformation.
Hadhrat narrated over and over again, that it had not even been
one month of this system of one meal per day, when a
colleague from my village Hafiz Ni’matullah came to Kanpur
to study with me. The situation now was, one meal shared
between two people. A few days later another student arrived,
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now in twenty four hours, one piece of bread itself was eaten in
parts. The new student could not tolerate this test and quickly
returned home. But Hadhrat and respected Hafiz Ni’matullah
passed the entire year on one meal per day.
The motive to establish a madrassa
The district of Banda and its surrounding areas did not have
any noteworthy religious institutions. There was a long absence
of any personalities who could carry out the work of deen. It is
for this reason the area’s religious condition was very poor. A
large number of people were only Muslim by name; the reality
was that their condition was far worse than just having a weak
connection with Islam; some communities use to introduce
themselves by saying, we are neither Muslims nor Hindu; we
keep ties with so and so community.
After independence (from British rule), the “Shuddhi”
movement in the district of Banda began to convert weak
Muslims to Hinduism, and a flood of conversion had occurred.
Not hundred, but rather thousands of Muslims had certainly left
the fold of Islam, or were very close to doing so.
During this time Hadhrat was teaching at Madrassa Islamiyya
in Fatehpur. Hadhrat would continue to receive news about
events in Banda and surrounding areas. Hadhrat himself would
tell us, “one night, when I intended to sleep and was lying
down, this thought occurred to me, tomorrow on the day of
judgement, Allah will not ask me, did you teach this kitab or
not? Rather I will be asked, in your locality, people were
leaving the fold of Islam in huge numbers, what did you do?
The thought of this question made me lose my sleep. All night
I remained wallowing and distressed with this concern and I
couldn’t sleep for a single minute. However even before
morning had dawned, my mind and heart made a decision, that
now I have to work amongst the people of my locality, and
16 | P a g e
make worry and concern regarding their Iman. This in mind I
took leave from my madrassa and returned to my locality”.
In the beginning Hadhrat alone toured the villages where the
sin of retraction from Islam was increasing. Wherever and
whenever he got a chance he would speak about deen.
Not long ago, I had asked some details regarding these tours of
Hadhrat. Hadhrat said “when visiting those people who knew
my village Hatohra; I would use Hatohra as reference to
introduce myself and talk to them, and when visiting those who
knew my in laws, I would mention my in laws as a reference
and begin my talk. In this manner I covered several villages in
one day and conveyed to them the dawah of deen”. In the
answer to my question I was also told, “Sometimes the night
would be spent in bale of hay, and sometimes in the pathways
of fields”.
Hadhrat had been making effort in this manner for several
months, and felt a need for a madrassa which would serve as a
centre for this work and a place where the children of these
people can go to learn deen. Hadhrat went to the people of
Banda and nearby neighbourhoods and proposed the idea of a
madrassa. He visited certain individuals with great hopes, but
upon even hearing about this task they would, fearfully, put
fingers in their ears. People went as far saying, “Siddique,
people are struggling and awfully frustrated here, and you are
talking about a madrassa”.
Hadhrat would often tell us in detail regarding these events.
Until now there are so many other things I have preserved in
my memory, however it will become too lengthy.
Faced with despondency from all directions Hadhrat opened a
madrassa, after all. The inhabitants of his village were
extremely poor, the houses were of mud, and the masjid was
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small and in a pitiable condition. However nothing was an
obstacle when faced by Hadhrat’s firm determination.
During those days Hadhrat would recite a lengthy poem, he
would relate to me on many occasions some the verses of that
poem. Whenever he would narrate the poem, his eyes would
begin to weep with tears.
I hope (it is Allah will) that this poem is preserved somewhere.
What a poem, it was the cries of a broken and sorrowful heart.
The construction of the madrassa
Today Hadhrat’s madrassa looks like a magnificent fortress.
When I was teaching at the madrassa, quite a few buildings
had already been made, however today there are ten times as
many buildings.
About thirty five years ago, Hadhrat Molana Abdul Majid
Daryabadi RA, having seen the madrassa wrote “Allahu
Akbar! How small the village is and how big is the madrassa,
the servants of Allah have built the fortresses of Allah’s deen
all over”.
The madrassa appears as a definite delight in the jungle. But
how were these buildings made? In today’s time, we would
find it difficult to even contemplate this. I have seen and heard
that for the construction of the madrassa, a very small furnace
used to be in place. Hadhrat, the teachers and students would
help at every stage, and would work in the same manner as the
labourers during the construction. When mixing the cement
and sand their hands would bleed. Without any exaggeration,
this beautiful building that has been made, not only includes
the sweat, but the blood of Hadhrat, numerous students and
teachers. Allah reward them all according to his glory for their
efforts and favours.
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There is a stream close by to the madrassa. Whenever it rains,
small stones move along the stream and gather at particular
places on the river bank. These stones would then be mixed
with lime to produce bricks. Hadhrat knew very well, about the
various junctures in the streams that would gather the most
stones. He also knew perfectly well how to collect and clean
these stones. Hadhrat along with the students would collect and
gather stones from the stream, clean them, put them into
baskets and load them on to the ox cart.
Working hard in this manner Hadhrat would be very pleasant
and working with him was rather enjoyable. Everyone was
very informal with him. Some senior students would even have
some banter with Hadhrat. I have never seen or heard of such a
beloved mentor. Hadhrat would laugh and make others laugh.
Such admirable smile and beautiful teeth was rarely seen.
Regarding the construction of the madrassa, Hadhrat would
take opinions from all and accept opinions too. In this was
way, straw by straw, this nest was made.
Other than his own madrassa, Hadhrat was greatly concerned
about establishing elementary madrassa (maktab) all over
towns and villages. Hadhrat established and was financially
responsible for approximately one hundred makatib and
madrassas.
Only Allah knows how many villages there are, where as a
result of Muslims being in a minority, masjids could not be
established. Hadhrat would gain the trust of the Hindu brothers
in those areas and build masajid.
Those areas where there was no possibility of building a
masjid, a room that faced the qibla was built, under the name
of a school, classes and salat would take place there. Hadhrat
would often say, “The difference between the level of deen in
19 | P a g e
the Muslims in villages with and without masajid is that of
between the earth and the sky”.
Courtesy and humility
Hadhrat was an icon of courtesy and humility. He would
consider himself the most inferior and an unworthy servant to
all. You may have read many stories of affection previously,
also read this one please.
There were twelve toilets situated opposite the masjid in the
madrassa that were used by all students and teachers. The
uncultured students from the villages would spoil the toilets in
every possible manner. However in the morning the toilets
were spotlessly clean. No one had any idea who was cleaning
them. Once about two thirty in the morning I needed to answer
the call of nature. As I got nearer to the toilets I saw a person
taking from a pit and putting into a bucket, water that would
collect from the masjid wudhu place and wash the toilets. On
closer inspection I realised it was our Hadhrat himself. I
continued to observe Hadhrat, and quietly then went back and
lay down on my bed. I didn’t have the courage to go any closer
and join Hadhrat, as Hadhrat would feel sad upon the exposure
of his secret. Upon seeing Hadhrat do all this, sleep was out of
the question for me. Thereafter Hadhrat would go to the well of
the masjid that had a tap attached, and would take a bath, after
which he would then begin tahajjud salat in the masjid
courtyard. Allah knows best what reward he will receive for
this work and how much this tahajjud salat would have been
beloved to him. To sweep the courtyard and balcony opposite
his room was nothing special; this was a daily errand for
Hadhrat.
A very well respected buzrug planned to visit Hadhrat. In order
for the stay of elderly guests to be comfortable Hadhrat had
two toilets close to his room. The tank of these toilets had
become blocked. Hadhrat called upon two of his close friends
20 | P a g e
Molana Mohammad Manzoor and Molana Anis Ahmad, and
said “I have a job, which only we can do, will you help?”
“Most definitely, tell us what needs to be done” they replied.
Credit to the two the young Molanas, who themselves narrate,
after being informed of the task, they as well as Hadhrat
collected filth from the blocked toilets into buckets and
disposed of it far away in the fields.
Kindness towards students
Hadhrat would treat the students like his own children and care
for all their needs. All the students would receive their meals
from the madrassa, if a poor student had no clothing, Hadhrat
would also see to this. He would visit the sick students at their
room and arrange for their medications.
One of the students developed small pox whilst Hadhrat was
away. Hadhrat returned a few days later and immediately
enquired if all was well at the madrassa. Hadhrat become very
distressed when he came to know a student was ill and
instantly made his way back to Banda.
We pleaded with Hadhrat, that he has just returned from a long
journey and the weather is extremely hot at this time.
Alternatively he can send someone on his behalf with a letter to
any doctor in Banda. However Hadhrat did not give in, and
made his way to Banda in the severe heat. During those days
you had to walk two kilometres before taking a bus to Banda.
Bus services were limited so there was always a long wait in
the face of a heat wave during the afternoon.
Hadhrat left the madrassa at about 12 o’clock, and returned at
three o’clock with some doctors who had a very good
relationship with him. The doctors examined the student and
reassured Hadhrat he will be fine. Hadhrat would nurse the
student until he regained health.
21 | P a g e
On one occasion Hadhrat remarked about an old student when
his mention was made, that he cleaned him when spoiled by
urine and faeces, and further went to say that he was not
exaggerating.
The issue in the district of Banda and nearby villages was not
only limited to whether knowledge or piety was present. Rather
it was about survival and death of Islam. This issue was close
at heart to Molana and he gave it great importance in a manner
that it deserved.
It is for this reason Hadhrat was very lenient towards students
from these villages. If these students were not actively
studying, Hadhrat would still allow them to stay on. I would
sometimes look down upon these students and say some
inappropriate words regarding them to Hadhrat. There was a
student called ‘Laal Mohammed’ who never paid any attention
to his studies. On many occasions I requested Hadhrat to send
him back home, however Hadhrat would ignore my request.
One day Hadhrat said “people are saying Laal Mohammed will
not be able to complete his studies, he has however completed
his recitation of the entire Quran”. I realised I was being
addressed and replied “it took him five years just to complete a
recitation of the entire Quran”. I will never forget Hadhrat’s
response, with great fervour he said, “Molana, Laal
Mohammed is probably the only one in his village that
understands Islam, if children from these areas remain here
without studying one word, I am prepared to tolerate this”.
I can great worry and concern still cannot reach this level.
Entertaining guests
It is mentioned in the Ahadith that honouring the guest is a sign
of Iman. Hadhrat would very often have visitors that would be
entertained to the highest degree. Hadhrat did not want the
madrassa to be responsible for his guests. Therefore whatever
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food that was available at his home was brought for the guests
and at times food was arranged by those close to him.
Hadhrat’s room was also the guest’s room, which contained
one aluminium tray, four aluminium plates and one cloth that
had patches of various colours. If guests had arrived
unexpectedly then Hadhrat would take these utensils and
collect food from his house and from the homes of his close
friends that were en route, and return to the madrassa.
Alhamdulillah, to a certain degree I was close to Hadhrat. The
people of the village also had great love for me. I would
occasionally also carry out this errand of arranging food. On
one occasion during the absence of Hadhrat some guests had
arrived unexpectedly. I went to a very close friend’s house that
however was not at home. I informed the house members
through the children of that home that guests have arrived, may
I have a plate of daal (lentils) or curry. May Allah reward my
friend’s wife, she put forward through the children a pot of
food, and said “feed the guests, whatever is left over you can
bring back, the children are still yet to eat”. The people of this
village set an example in honouring the guest.
Hadhrat would always mention those people in the village who
had helped him during the early days of the madrassa. As I
mentioned earlier I would sometimes go to some of the homes
of the villagers as Hadhrat did and request some food, Hadhrat
however would never tolerate me asking for food at someone’s
door step, and this is what exactly happened on one occasion.
Hadhrat was not feeling well and decided to go home whereby
guests had arrived at the madrassa. I thought to myself I should
arrange the food for the guests rather than troubling Hadhrat,
and collected the utensils from Hadhrat’s room. Hadhrat was
also informed about the arrival of guests and immediately
made his way to the madrassa. I met Hadhrat on my way and
upon seeing me with utensils in my hands he began to shed
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tears, and said “Molana I will do this, this work cannot be done
by you” and with great pain said “this has certainly been
destined for me”.
Worry and concern for the reconciliation between Muslims
Islam places great importance in having love, affection and
good relations with the slaves of Allah, and on the other hand
detests fighting and controversy.
Hadhrat had great concern regarding the reconciliation between
the ummah, especially those of the religious class, or those that
were attached to a religious group or institution, because the
disputes that occur amongst them was not just limited to two
personalities or two groups, but rather its effect would spread
far and be harmful for deen. Hadhrat would try his utmost to
resolve disputes amongst such people and would never shy
away from the task.
There was a dispute between two teachers from one madrassa,
which was beginning to get out of control. Hadhrat wished to
make peace between the two. He managed to convince one of
the teachers, but the one who felt he had been wronged was not
prepared to forgive the other teacher even if he asked for
forgiveness. Hadhrat tried his best to make him change his
mind. I was present with another person during this incident.
When all else failed Hadhrat took off his topee and placed it at
the feet of the unforgiving teacher. Those of us present felt as if
we were struck with lightning and everyone came to a halt.
This softened his heart and peace was made between the two
teachers.
There was similar incident to this in Lucknow, where unity was
needed amongst two groups of Muslims. When Hadhrat could
not convince some angry youth for peace he again took off his
topee and placed it at their feet, and again a positive result was
24 | P a g e
achieved. Alhamdulillah a terrible situation of bloodshed was
avoided.
There were several stories like this in Hadhrat’s life, and
through his efforts several Muslim families and institutions
have been saved from destruction. I have never seen anyone
like Hadhrat who bore the pain of others in his heart.
A few days before Hadhrat’s demise a dispute occurred at a
particular madrassa. Hadhrat’s condition was such that it was
even painful for him to put his feet on the ground. In this
condition Hadhrat travelled hundreds of miles from Banda to
resolve this difference. On his return Hadhrat came to
Lucknow, I said to Hadhrat “even in this condition you do not
refrain from travelling?” Hadhrat replied I had no choice but to
make this journey and Alhamdulillah it was a fruitful one, the
dispute in the madrassa has been resolved and the people of
the madrassa are happy.
Hadhrat’s childhood
From beginning till the end Hadhrat’s life was full of struggles.
His entire life was without ease, comfort, contentment and
peace. Perhaps there isn’t a great scholar like him today who
endured such rigour.
Hadhrat would narrate to us his childhood. Hadhrat lived in a
very poor village. Every day the children of the village were
sent to the forests in the morning just like the animals, where
they would roam and spend the whole day and eat figs or
something similar to fill their stomachs. When the children
were able to eat chickpea leaves they would eat this to remove
their hunger and return home.
Due to the fact Hadhrat was doing hifz he would receive roti to
eat, however his two younger sisters would be sent to the
25 | P a g e
forests like the other children. Hadhrat would cry and desire to
share his roti with his sisters but he was never allowed to do so.
Whenever Hadhrat would narrate this part of his childhood he
would weep and his voice would be lost in his throat. Hadhrat’s
two younger sisters died at a very young age.
A few examples of sympathy and sacrifice
The food in Hadhrat’s house was very simple and there were
very few households in the village that could afford two meals
a day. It was common for all the homes in the village to eat
chutney with roti or rice or a meal similar to this such as dalya
or maheer. Maheer is dish often eaten by villagers in the
Bundelkhand (central India) region, where rice is cooked with
butter milk. Hadhrat himself would have roti with dry chutney.
May Allah grant Hadhrat the best of all foods in paradise.
He was quite fond of chutney, and when I first started at the
madrassa, for the first few days I would have my two meals
with Hadhrat. It was only later I came to know that daal and
vegetables were cooked because of me. Hadhrat would take
roti made of wheat and hand them to me. Hadhrat would make
the roti into small morsels and eat it. After a while I came to
learn Hadhrat would eat his roti like this as he was eating roti
made of millet (the small seeds of a plant similar to grass, used
as food) and the roti made of wheat was made especially for
me.
Eating together with Hadhrat did not last for long as he was
usually pre occupied. There was no fixed time for his meals nor
was it fixed if would have a meal that day. His pre occupation
meant his afternoon meal would be left till the evening and if
he was still busy then he would not even eat in the evening.
Later on he began to only have one meal for the day, which
meant there was no breakfast and no evening meal. What can I
26 | P a g e
say about this noble person and his family? Every thought of
him makes me shed a tear.
When I began to eat my meals on my own, the food sent from
the madrassa kitchen was simple daal and roti, however
almost every day from Hadhrat’s home a plate or a pot of daal
and vegetables would be sent for me. At this point I was still
unaware of the true condition in Hadhrat’s home. A few
months had only passed since my arrival in Hatohra, one day
when I was getting ready to eat in my room, one of Hadhrat’s
daughters who was about six or seven brought some vegetables
for me to eat. I asked her to partake of some food but she
replied she had already eaten. I further asked “what have you
eaten?” the innocent girl unknowingly told me the true
situation of her home. She replied she had eaten rice and
chutney and that the vegetables were only cooked for me. As
soon as I heard this tears flowed from my eyes and I told her to
take the food back home, she initially refused but upon my
insistence took the food back home. After some time the food
was sent back to me and again I returned the food through
some children. I later complained to Hadhrat that my little
brothers and sisters are made to eat chutney while I am
regularly sent vegetables or better daal. Please do not think I
am so shameless or selfish. Hadhrat paid no attention to this
incident and said “I don’t know what this child has said to you
and you have taken it so seriously, the children get to eat
everything at home”, in the end I gave in, and this regular
practice continued.
Stories like this would be an everyday occurrence with
Hadhrat, ‘at the end of the day Hadhrat was Hadhrat’. In this
matter I find Hadhrat’s late wife’s participation greater than
Hadhrat’s. She was from a family of wealthy landlords, and
gave preference to others over herself and her children. What a
heart she had been blessed with. May Allah grant this heavenly
couple the highest abode in jannatul firdous, and May Allah
reward them according to his glory because of the favours
27 | P a g e
granted to me and thousands of others by them. There are so
many other countless stories like this I remember, and I will
narrate one more.
A few days had only passed since Hadhrat’s eldest daughter
had been married; guests from her in laws had arrived. The
guests were to stay for two or three days in Hatohra as they had
several relations there. The guests were invited for a meal by
one of Hadhrat’s close relatives one evening. That day after
Asar salat it rained heavily and the roads in the village became
unsafe. The host sent the food to Hadhrat’s house and passed a
message that the guests should not come as they would be
greatly inconvenienced. It was Allah’s will that some time after
Maghrib salat, guests from Kanpur unexpectedly arrived at the
madrassa. Hadhrat became concerned regarding their food
arrangements and went home to enquire if there was any food.
The household members informed Hadhrat what had happened
earlier on and further said that because they were also invited
for the meal their share of food had also been sent over, and
nothing has been cooked at home. Hadhrat expressed signs of
happiness and sent this food to the madrassa and told the house
members to cook some dalya or rice etc, and whatever that was
left over from the madrassa would be sent home. To give
preference to the guests of the madrassa over guests that are
close relatives is very difficult.
On one occasion Hadhrat intended to visit Kanpur as Mufti
Mahmood sahib RA was also going to be there. He quickly
completed his afternoon classes and delegated many duties for
the madrassa that needed to be completed. I rushed to
Hadhrat’s house to get him some food, his usual roti and
chutney. I requested Hadhrat to eat and he replied with great
annoyance “is that all you care about, food? I am in a rush”. I
requested once more and he again refused. However I objected
a little further and strongly made my request; as a result
Hadhrat had one roti and then made his way to Kanpur.
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On the fourth day I received a letter from Hadhrat which had
been sent from “nine mile” (‘nine mile’ is the name of place
about one and a half miles from the madrassa which is
uninhabited, as it is nine miles from Banda, it is called ‘nine
mile’. Buses coming from Hatohra drop passengers at nine
mile, who from here then make their way to Banda.) The letter
read “send some food and a jug of water for me, also arrange
and send two or three bicycles as I have daal for the madrassa.
I immediately sent the food, water and a bicycle with two
students, advising them to inform Hadhrat more bicycles were
on their way. I further told the students that one of them should
wait for Hadhrat to finish eating and bring him to the madrassa
on the bicycle, and the other should remain there to look after
the food.
As soon as Hadhrat returned he made salaam and said to me
“did you have kashf?” I didn’t know what Hadhrat meant and
he asked again “did you have kashf?” I replied “Hadhrat I do
not understand what you mean.”Hadhrat said “the only food I
have eaten is the one roti you forced me to eat, and now the
food you had sent for me.”I asked Hadhrat “didn’t anyone offer
you food in Kanpur” Hadhrat replied in the negative. Very few
people had the ability to insist Hadhrat to eat; otherwise the
people of Kanpur would go out their way to entertain Hadhrat.
Hadhrat’s piety and cautiousness for himself
The salary of the teachers at Hadhrat’s madrassa wasn’t very
much; however there were many other benefits that would
compensate for this. For example Hadhrat would to the best of
his ability provide accommodation for those teachers in need of
it with nominal rent. In a similar manner, grains, oil etc for the
madrassa kitchen were bought at the time of the harvest, with
enough purchased to take into consideration the needs of
teachers. The rate at they were purchased during the harvest
was the rate they were sold to teachers all year round. These
crops were given as a loan or paid for in instalment from their
29 | P a g e
salaries. Food crops for Ramadhan were supplied to the
madrassa kitchen in Shabaan before it would close.
During Shabaan of the year in which Hadhrat’s son, Molana
Habib Sahib became a teacher, the person in charge of the
kitchen was providing teachers with grains etc and per chance
Molana Habib Sahib walked passed. Molana was asked “if you
require anything you can also take as you are now a teacher
too. Upon this offer Molana purchased two or three kilos of
chickpeas lentils. As he was leaving Hadhrat had arrived and
asked in a harsh tone “what is this?” poor Molana became
worried. The person in charge of the kitchen answered for
Molana saying “two kilos of lentils have been purchased and
paid for”. I had never seen Hadhrat in such a state of anger, he
admonished Molana Habib Ahmad in the most harsh tone, and
said “are these your father’s goods, after repeated begging I
bring things for you”. I quickly arrived at the scene and
pleaded “that this benefit (buying grains at cost price) was for
all teachers”, however there was no change in Hadhrat’s anger,
we were all petrified. Molana went back to the kitchen and
returned the lentils. This is how cautious Hadhrat was for
himself and for those of his household. Hadhrat did not accept
any salary from the madrassa nor did he take any benefit from
the madrassa for himself or his children.
The majority of the land on which the madrassa had been built
belonged to his family or close ones. Hadhrat used his own
money to build the room he resided in at the madrassa.
Whenever Hadhrat made a journey in connection with the
madrassa, to the best of his ability he would not use funds
from the madrassa. He would do some business on his journey
to cover the costs. There was a teacher at the madrassa called
Molana Saadullah Sahib who had a shop. Once when Hadhrat
was going Kanpur, he asked Molana Saadullah Sahib “what
can I get from Kanpur for your shop that will allow me to
cover the cost of my journey”. Molana replied that ‘sun light’
(particular brand of soap to wash clothes) soaps cost this much
30 | P a g e
in Banda and in Kanpur it will cost you this much, bring a case
of sun light soap and I will purchase this, it will give you
enough profit to cover the cost of your journey. When Hadhrat
returned from Kanpur he handed the case of soaps to Molana
Saadullah Sahib, the profit made covered the cost of the soaps,
the cost of his journey and he was left with six bars of soap, at
which Hadhrat remarked “this will be of use to the poor
students”.
His life was a continuous journey
A lot people are aware of the way Hadhrat use to travel. He
used many modes of transport including, bicycles, cars, ox cart,
trains, buses and walked. Due the overwhelming work he had
he would never stay over somewhere. Many people who
invited Hadhrat were very selfish. They would never consider
ease or comfort for Hadhrat, nor would they even contribute to
reasonable travel costs, their only purpose being how Hadhrat
can come to them regardless of the difficulties he may have to
go through. I have accompanied Hadhrat on many such
journeys. Many occasions’ people would take Hadhrat far into
the villages without arranging any transport for his return,
Hadhrat would then have to make his own arrangements.
Regardless of all the difficulties he faced Hadhrat never uttered
a word of complaint. Hadhrat never hurt someone’s feelings.
Those fortunate individuals who wished to pay for travel costs,
Hadhrat would initially decline and if they insisted Hadhrat
would only take that much which was necessary. One
individual, who invited Hadhrat, put forward to me enough
money to pay for Hadhrat’s travel via first class. Hadhrat
remarked “this is a lot of money”, the person replied “it is my
wish you travel first class; the contribution is from me, not
from the madrassa funds”. Hearing this Hadhrat said “is this
what the Muslim’s should spend their money on? I will remain
at the station throughout the night but will not travel first
class”.
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From amongst the many journeys Hadhrat made, there were some
which we use to think were unnecessary. However in Hadhrat’s
foresight, they were very beneficial. One afternoon, Hadhrat
completed his classes and was going somewhere on a bicycle. I
enquired where he was going, and after repeated questioning
Hadhrat finally told me, “a child in a certain village was being
circumcised”, I greatly disapproved this, and later asked “is this a
reason to make a travel?”. “Molana by participating in their
celebrations I have passed on the message of deen to them” was
his answer to my question. After a long time it occurred to me that
by taking part in these events, Hadhrat made the way easier for
the work of deen to take place.
Serving mankind
In Ahadith the importance of serving mankind has been
reported. Rasulullah Sallalahu Alayhi Wasallam has said “the
creation of Allah is part of the ‘family’ of Allah, those who
show kindness towards the creation become highly beloved to
Allah”; in serving mankind Hadhrat was a great example.
Hadhrat would do his utmost to assist those in need, be it
arranging marriages, helping the sick with medical treatment,
or seeking employment for someone. One had to just ask
Hadhrat, or if it came to Hadhrat’s knowledge someone was in
need, he would make it compulsory on himself to help this
person to the best of his ability.
Hadhrat accompanied many sick people to Mumbai, Kanpur,
Lucknow, Banda city, and Allah knows where else to assist
them. The amount of people whom Hadhrat made efforts for
employment is not hundreds but rather thousands. There must
be many families Hadhrat has helped who are greatly indebted
to him.
Appreciating the value of time
There is a replacement for everything in this world except for
time that is wasted which can never be compensated for, and it
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is to time we fall prey to by in appreciating it the most. Hadhrat
took great care of his time and had value for it, whatever he
spent his time in doing, he considered it as deen and utilised his
time accordingly.
Along with teaching senior kitabs that were challenging,
Hadhrat would see to the construction work of madrassa and
physically take part in it. Hadhrat would take time out to ensure
smooth running of the kitchen and entertain the guests, meeting
all their needs to provide a comfortable stay. Daily Hadhrat
would write, if not a thousand then definitely hundreds of
taweez, and along with this there would some writing done
every day for the composition of some literature or academic
book.
Hadhrat would be steadfast in his daily worship (Ibadat and
mamoolat) even when travelling; his recitation of Quran would
rather increase during travels. Once I accompanied Hadhrat to
Mumbai, we had set out from Lucknow. While we are at
Kanpur and Jhansi people came to visit Hadhrat, some of
whom were in need of some help. At around two o’clock in the
morning our train departed from Jhansi, sleep had overtaken
me again but Hadhrat was busy in tahajjud salat. I woke up at
three o’clock only to see Hadhrat busy in dua and prayers.
After Mumbai our journey was to Bhatkal in the state of
Karnatak. As we were approaching Bhatkal there was beautiful
natural scenery which I was admiring, I once or twice diverted
Hadhrat’s attention to this, he would look for one moment and
then get back to his work i.e. reciting Quran. I once more
pressed Hadhrat to look at the beautiful scenery, “what is there
to see, what I gain by seeing it?” he replied with a little bit
displeasure, and returned to his recitation of Quran.
Ardour and solidity in deen
Apart from Hadhrat’s great humility, he was independent; he
had honour for deen, and was uncompromising in matters
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pertaining to religion. None has seen Hadhrat flattering or
making sweet-talk to someone for any material gain even if it
be for the madrassa.
During my early days at the madrassa Hadhrat narrated an
incident. A person from Banda city mentioned to Hadhrat that
a particular wealthy person wanted to see him. Hadhrat said he
will personally go to see him, however either Hadhrat forgot or
due to his pre occupations did not make a visit. A few days
later that man came again to inform Hadhrat that this wealthy
person wants to see you and has mentioned a five hundred
rupee donation for the madrassa. Five hundred rupees was a lot
in those days, it could pay a teacher’s salary for about eight to
ten months. However Hadhrat’s great honour for Islam and his
self respect as an Alim would never allow him to make a visit
to gain rupees. In the end this person sent the money, and later
Hadhrat went to visit him.
Hadhrat’s uncompromising attitude for religious matters would
never change for the sake of anyone. This was a notable quality
of Hadhrat, he would not say much but rather his actions spoke
louder.
Once during the ‘emergency era’ in India, the district collector
of Banda who was a Shia and a Muslim minister came to visit
Hadhrat, with the hope of getting a fatwa that gave the
permissibility of sterilisation (form of birth control). It was the
last ten days of Ramadhan; Hadhrat was in i’tikaf in the Jamea
masjid of Banda. Hadhrat told them politely “our elders are
present in Lucknow and Delhi, please ask them regarding a
fatwa, there is no need to ask so many people”. However these
people wanted a fatwa of permissibility from Hadhrat and
remained resolute in their request. During the conversation the
district collector said to Hadhrat “do not worry about anyone in
Banda uttering a word against you” Hadhrat became extremely
angry and said “do you think I give a fatwa of lawfulness and
unlawfulness on the basis of pleasing people or on the basis of
34 | P a g e
fearing or not fearing someone”. As Hadhrat had spoken in a
rather harsh tone, one of the individuals in the group
accompanying minister said to Hadhrat “do you know whom
you are talking to?” in the same harsh tone Hadhrat replied I
know he is the district collector and this is the minister”
Hadhrat further went on to say “do whatever you can, I will not
issue a fatwa that makes sterilisation lawful”. In the end these
people went away. Hadhrat’s popularity with the people meant
they could not dare cause any harm to Hadhrat, otherwise the
‘emergency era’ was terrible.
Kashf and miracles are nothing commendable
Allah knows best what stories of Hadhrat’s miracles (Karamat)
people have fabricated. Other than Hadhrat’s constant striving,
adherence to Sunnah, sincerity, piety, and sympathy, we have
not seen any special miracle, rather when confirming with
Hadhrat the hearsay regarding miracles attributed to him, he
would deny them.
Only a few days ago Hadhrat said “kashf and miracles are not
difficult, one has to be a little devoted, aloof from people, and
sit in seclusion and it will be obtained. When I was studying in
‘Pani Pat’ I was mostly in my room and would refrain from
mixing with people and at that time I had clear kashf”. Hadhrat
then went to narrate an incident of his kashf.
I had kashf about a young man that the police would arrest him;
I mentioned this to him in secret, to which he remarked “do
you know about me?” I said “I only know this much that you
are student here”. The young man then went on to tell me his
story, “I began a revolt against the British government in my
locality, when I felt danger ahead, I temporarily enrolled as a
student here”. This is all that he had told me and at that very
moment he disappeared from the madrassa. The following day
the British police had surrounded the entire madrassa, and
began searching every corner. The officer repeatedly said “the
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report of our intelligence dept can never be wrong, the student
was here yesterday. The people of the madrassa who were
unaware of the situation began to tell the truth, “there was a
student of the description given but he is no longer here and
this is all that we know”. After narrating this incident,
regarding his kashf Hadhrat said but it (kashf) is no longer
present.
Hadhrat was a very open person, from time to time he would
joke with the students and teachers. Whilst joking about
sensitive nature of the people of Lucknow he would say there
was woman who became displeased with her husband and said
“isn’t there anybody who can get me two paisa worth of
yellow lentils that I can eat to commit suicide”. In the same
way he used to tell us about an angry aristocrat from Lucknow
who saw a snake in his house, he began to say “are there any
men in the house who can kill the snake” the maid in the house
told him “sir, you are also a man in the house” to which he
replied “oh yes, I am also a man”, Hadhrat would laugh a lot
after narrating this.
Those who had only seen Hadhrat in the last eight or ten years
of his life, when his efforts, travels and worries had exhausted
him will not be able to picture Hadhrat’s openness and joking.
36 | P a g e
Part two
An example for the people of “madaris”
The owner of ‘public laundry Lucknow’, Haji Rafiq Sahib RA
came to visit me at my respected uncle Hadhrat Molana
Nomani RA home. He told me in private that “Hadhrat Molana
Siddique does not have a fan in his room and he must be in
great discomfort, I have purchased a fan but do not have the
courage to present it to him myself, go to Hatohra and present
this fan in Hadhrat’s service, I have hope Hadhrat will accept it
upon your approval, no one else has the courage to present it to
Hadhrat, nor will Hadhrat accept it from anybody else”.
During those days I was at Darul uloom Nadwatul Ulama;
however I was regularly coming to and from Banda. The
coming Thursday I set off for Banda, when I arrived at the
madrassa Hadhrat was not there, and considered this a good
opportunity, and got Hadhrat’s room opened. However I soon
became despondent when I noticed there was no hook on the
ceiling for the fan to be attached to, nor did I have it in me to
make a hole on the ceiling to place a hook or a pipe for the fan
to be attached to.
The next day Hadhrat arrived and I explained the purpose of
my visit, I added to Haji Rafiq’s request the fact that the fan
was for him and not the madrassa. Initially Hadhrat declined
owing to the fact that there is no hook on the ceiling. But when
we (there was with me Molana Manzoor and one or two others)
provided an alternative and were persistent with our request,
Hadhrat then began to make other excuses saying “I don’t feel
too hot anyway and you know very well that I sleep in this
room even when it is hot” etc. I continued my request and
mentioned Haji Rafiq had sent me, according to what he said
he had selected me for this because only I could accomplish
this task, otherwise he could have sent the fan with anyone.
37 | P a g e
Finally Hadhrat said what was in his heart. He said “you know
that here teachers generally do not have fans, it is not possible
for me to have a fan in my room while other teachers do not.
When all the teachers have fans fitted in their rooms then I will
also have one fitted, for now you can put the fan in the office, I
will write a letter to Haji Rafiq, please pass this onto him”.
Hadhrat thereafter wrote the letter addressed to Haji Sahib
which contained an apology and a mention of my efforts.
True breaking of the nafs Whilst I was teaching there during one monsoon season it
rained heavily and continuously for some days, there was no
sign of the rain stopping. A river stream near the madrassa
had overflowed causing damage to many homes and farmland
of the villagers. Rain and flooding of this level had not been
seen for many years.
Many people would request Hadhrat to make dua and likewise
Hadhrat would enjoin others to make dua and made dua
himself too. After salat dua would regularly be made in the
masjid.
During one afternoon when the rain was very heavy, water
began to seep out beneath the eastern wall which is attached to
the central gate of the madrassa (today the library is found
above this). We all understood that due to excessive rain and
flooding water levels in the ground had increased and caused
this outburst and as a result the building is in danger of
collapsing to the ground.
I informed Hadhrat of this who then took us all to the place of
this water outburst. He began to dig the soil nearby and place it
at the base of the wall; however this was not enough to stop the
water. Becoming restless he stood in the courtyard of the
masjid and began making dua. After a few sentences of dua he
made an uncontrollable outcry and said these words “Oh my
Allah, do not punish the madrassa because of my sins”, he
38 | P a g e
remained weeping and repeated over and over again “Oh my
Allah, do not punish the madrassa because of my sins, Oh my
Lord, do not allow the ill effects of my actions to befall the
madrassa. A large number teachers and students also stood in
the masjid courtyard busy weeping in dua.
In the end Allah bestowed his grace and mercy, the rain
subsided and weather was clear. Later it came to light that
damage to the roof caused substantial amount of water into the
wall, to then seep out from its base.
An example of Hadhrat’s kindness towards teachers
It was my second year of teaching and during those days I had
severe pain in my thighs as a result of an injury. I remained
restless because of this and pursued treatment accordingly.
It is in connection with this injury I went to Lucknow for
treatment, and from there went to my hometown Sanbhal. I
stayed between these two places for about a month. When I set
off for Banda from Sanbhal, my respected brother Molana
Zaheer Alam RA said “you have been absent from the
madrassa for one month, take some money from home to cover
your monthly expenses and do not accept this month’s salary.”
I collected this money from home and stopped over for one day
and one night in Lucknow as this is en route to Banda from
Sanbhal. As I was to leave for Banda the next morning that
night my respected uncle Molana Mohammad Manzoor
Nomani Sahib RA told me the same thing as my brother and
was giving me fifty rupees, I told him what my brother had
said and that I had taken money from home to cover my
expenses for the next month.
I arrived at the madrassa with the intention of not receiving
any salary for this month. It was customary at Hadhrat’s
madrassa for the salary to be paid on the first of every month.
Hadhrat would call the teachers to his room where they would
39 | P a g e
collect their salary. If for some reason a teacher could not
attend, Hadhrat would either meet them in the masjid or in their
rooms and hand the salary.
After arriving at the madrassa Hadhrat called upon me two or
three times to collect my salary but I did not present myself.
Hadhrat met me after Dhuhr salat in the masjid and said “I
called upon you two or three times but you failed to come”. I
told Hadhrat what had transpired from Sanbhal to Lucknow,
and more importantly that I brought with me money to cover
my expenses for the next month. Hadhrat took out the salary
from his pocket, handing it over to me but I was refusing to
accept, during his insistence and my refusal I said “Hadhrat,
when I haven’t taught for one month, how is it permissible for
me to accept this salary?” Hadhrat smiled and said “I am also
aware of this matter”, but when I remained firm on my refusal,
Hadhrat informed me the reality of the matter.
The whole purpose of mentioning this incident is to highlight
what he said and it is the moral of this old story. He said
“Molana (Hadhrat use to refer to all the teachers as Molana),
the day you left, I taught all your classes on your behalf, not
even one lesson was left out”. Ah! This exemplary character
has left with him.
A rare example of sympathy and sacrifice One very cold winter’s night at ten o’clock a student came to
my house which was in the madrassa to inform me Hadhrat
has a fever; he is feeling very cold and is shivering. He is
laying down in the masjid and groaning loudly.
I knew Hadhrat had just arrived a little earlier after Esha salat
from a journey but I did not have the opportunity to meet him. I
didn’t quite know what to do at this very moment, I was sure
Hadhrat would be hungry and so for the time being made some
egg desert and a nice hot cup of tea, and took this hot food to
serve Hadhrat. I made salaam, to which Hadhrat replied from
40 | P a g e
under his quilt. His condition was the same as what had been
described by the student. He had difficulty in speech due to the
cold and had a severe fever. I requested Hadhrat to drink the
tea to lessen his fever, Hadhrat then said some guest from
Kanpur have accompanied him, and are staying in so and so
room, give them some tea. I said “please have some tea; I will
give them some tea too. I have specially made this tea for you”.
With difficulty he drank little tea and some desert. As I was
making my way back I said to Hadhrat I will now give some
tea to the guests, “the guests have probably gone to sleep now,
do not disturb them” Hadhrat replied. As I have written
previously in these current times I have never seen or heard of
someone with such sympathy and hospitality towards guests.
A beautiful conduct of discipline The manner in educating those close to him was very
wonderful. There was a respected person called Munawwar
Khah Sahib, a senior officer in the government’s electricity
board. He was originally from the district of Meerut and was
posted at Banda. He was well educated in English, and he as
well as his children had a very pious nature. Every Muslim
coming to Banda would develop love and a bond of trust with
Hadhrat very quickly. Munawwar Sahib would also regularly
attend to Hadhrat, travelling by his car. Hadhrat would always
serve him tea.
On one occasion Munawwar Sahib was sitting at the dinner
spread busy having tea and some food, Hadhrat took some food
and a cup of tea and offered this to Munawwar Sahib’s driver
himself. This had a great effect on Munawwar Sahib; after all
he was a great follower of Hadhrat, thereafter only once or
twice food was sent to the driver and Munawwar Sahib
understood that Hadhrat wishes that the driver too sits with us
to eat, and this is what happened from then on.
Taking care of the madrassa
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Hadhrat would be disturbed greatly if anything of the madrassa
was destroyed. Hadhrat would personally look after the
building materials of the madrassa and prevent them from
being wasted. He would look after smallest of things and
would be well aware of his responsibility regarding this.
The central portion of the masjid is the original part of the
masjid and the eastern part is a later addition. When the new
portion of the masjid had been built, with the flooring complete
it looked very beautiful. The flooring of the old masjid for
some reason or other had sunk in and compared to the new
flooring did not look as nice, and hence there was a mismatch
between the two that could be seen. Once Hadhrat said to those
teachers who had an input in the building of the madrassa,
“how nice it would be if the old flooring was like the new one”.
Upon this statement only, when Hadhrat was absent these
people began to break the old flooring to make a new one.
Only a small portion had been broken and Hadhrat had just
returned from a journey. Upon seeing this Hadhrat became
very sad. I was at Nadwa at the time but I would regularly visit,
by chance during these very days I was in Hatohra, Hadhrat
came to the masjid and was trying to ensure flooring is
removed in larger portions so that they could be use as flooring
elsewhere. When the labourers were breaking the flooring
Hadhrat said to me “each strike of the labourers hammer is
hitting my heart”. Hadhrat then narrated to me the whole
incident which has been written above and said “my intention
was not to have new flooring made”.
One more example of Hadhrat’s kind teaching
As a result of Hadhrat’s blessing, good management, and dua,
during the days when I was teaching there, the environment in
the madrassa was very good, the relationship teachers had with
one another was very close, just like with the people of one’s
home and extended family. If whenever one had a complaint
against another then after few days itself or if it came to
Hadhrat’s knowledge it would be resolved.
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In those days there was no madrassa committee, this came into
existence much later on. If a problem did arise Hadhrat would
call all the teachers and a consultation would take place.
On one occasion during a consultation I and Molana Nafees
Akbar Sahib had conflicting opinions. Molana in all respects
was my senior, head of teachers at the time, and during
Hadhrat’s absence Molana Nafees would be responsible for
administration of the madrassa. Regardless of Molana being
my senior he would always show affection to me, and I too
would respect him. However according to me Molana’s
opinion was not worthy of acceptance and during the course of
the disagreement I said “Molana you are very insistent in your
opinion”, it was quite obvious the tone in the manner of my
speech was inappropriate. Molana Nafees Akbar Sahib replied
“I also think of you as doing the same”. After this the
consultation did not continue for very long and I think a
decision had not been made regarding an issue. We left the
consultation room and I immediately apologised to Molana
Nafees about my behaviour, Molana Nafees said “there is no
need to apologise; I too gave you a similar answer”. Anyhow
our hearts remained clean and we continued to meet in a
friendly manner, with love and compassion.
However this incident remained on Hadhrat’s mind. A few
days later I went to Lucknow for some reason. Upon my return
I went to visit Hadhrat, “have you met Molana Nafees Akbar
Sahib?” he asked. This type of questioning was completely
new, I replied “no, I have not met him”, “please meet him”
Hadhrat said. Thereafter I met Molana Nafees Akbar Sahib, but
didn’t think much of it. A few days later when returned to
Hatohra from Lucknow, I went to see Hadhrat and he again put
forward the same request, “please visit Molana Nafees Akbar
Sahib”. Now it occurred to me that Hadhrat may be of the
impression that our hearts may render ill feelings towards each
other, and because it was my fault, and in all respect I am
43 | P a g e
Molana’s junior, Hadhrat wants me to make an apology. When
I had realised this I would then on several occasions show by
words and actions my good relations with Molana Nafees
Akbar Sahib. Hadhrat was then finally content and no longer
asked the same question. Many years later I mentioned this
whole incident to Hadhrat, to which Hadhrat simply smiled.
Kindness towards students
There was a student named Ahmadullah from the district of
Pratapgarh studying at the madrassa. He narrated a story of
Hadhrat’s compassion. Once he became ill, and Hadhrat took
him to Banda for treatment. When Hadhrat would visit Banda,
he would reside in a small masjid that had one small room
either for the imam or the muazzin. This room had space for
only one person to lie down; I have accompanied Hadhrat and
stayed in this room and masjid several times.
The student went on to say Hadhrat made me sleep on the
imam’s bed, and he himself lay on the floor of the masjid and
tied one end of a rope to his hand and gave me the other end in
my hand saying “if you need anything during the night pull the
rope to awaken me”. I have already written before that such
acts of love and affection were not rare occurrences or a
coincidence with Hadhrat. His behaviour towards the most
common student was exactly the same.
Pelted with stones for the sake of deen Hadhrat had the privilege to be pelted with stones for the sake of
religion and have an affinity with the Sunnah of the ambiya (AS).
There was a small town in the district of Fatehpur where
staunch Barelwis had a stronghold. There were only a few
people in that area that had correct beliefs. Hadhrat wanted to
begin a series of visits there so that the beliefs can be imparted
to the people, however he could not figure out a way for this to
happen.
44 | P a g e
Some people of this town were staying in Mumbai and Calcutta
in search of regular employment. They were not staunch in
their beliefs and they would see how senior leaders of Mumbai
and Calcutta were hospitable to Hadhrat, and for this reason
they wanted to become close to Hadhrat.
On one occasion Hadhrat went to Calcutta, one of the people
from that small town came to know of Hadhrat’s arrival and
went to see him as they had a connection of being from the
same town.
Allah (SWT) had bestowed Hadhrat with an extraordinary quality
of winning the hearts of the people. When this person arrived
Hadhrat welcomed him showing great affection and introduced
him to important people of Calcutta. “He lives near my
hometown, and very close to his town is a village where my
relatives reside” Hadhrat remarked, and said other such similar
things. Hadhrat then also made him partake of some food.
This person was now ready to give his heart to Hadhrat.
Whenever Hadhrat would visit this person’s hometown, he
would invite Hadhrat and make him deliver a speech in front of
his house. The people of this small town initially didn’t make
any serious opposition to this, however later at night they threw
stones on the stage, (where Hadhrat was delivering a talk),
Hadhrat was hit by some stones, but this was the moment, ‘the
coal was hot’, Hadhrat put his heart out and gave a speech
regarding the love of Rasulullah (saw) and the following of
Rasulullah (saw). Many stone hearted hearts became soft and
this opened the way for the future. Alhamdulillah our people
have a madrassa there and Alhamdulillah the work of deen is
taking place there.
We had a student that was a great follower of Hadhrat and
wanted him to perform his nikah ceremony and so he came to
collect Hadhrat for this purpose. The people of his village were
staunch type of Barelwis. Those present in the nikah ceremony
45 | P a g e
pelted Hadhrat with stones. Somehow Hadhrat gave a brief
talk, performed the nikah and went back. The poor student
became very embarrassed; he had a completely different
intention in mind. Hadhrat however consoled him and gave
him words of encouragement to be steadfast. Only Allah knows
how many times Hadhrat had been pelted with stones for that
sake of Islam. This incident Hadhrat had never narrated to me,
it was the Molana (mentioned in above story) himself that
narrated it.
The southern door of the madrassa was faced towards the
village. During those days the animals of the villagers,
buffaloes, goats, and chickens would come into the madrassa,
some of the teachers would also keep goats and chickens. As a
result the courtyard of the madrassa and its platform would be
covered with animal droppings.
Hadhrat himself would clean the animal dung outside his room.
One day outside the same door, some cows or buffaloes had
left droppings in the courtyard. Hadhrat expressed a gesture of
annoyance when he saw this, and rolled up his sleeves and
went to pick up the dung, I was with Hadhrat at this time and I
quickly picked up the dung, Hadhrat surprised at this said
“what are you doing?” and tried to take the dung from my
hands. I requested “Hadhrat I have made my hands dirty
already, why are you getting your hands dirty?” I took the dung
out of the madrassa and disposed it. It caused Hadhrat great
pain that I had to clean the dung and he became furious at the
students, “how will you learn knowledge, you make your
teacher of Hadith and Tafseer pick up dung, where were your
eyes, why did not see” he rebuked.
Regardless of the many journeys Hadhrat would make he was
very considerate in being punctual for classes the classes he
taught. This is why he would want to return from a journey as
soon possible. In order to do this he would withstand great
46 | P a g e
difficulties in his travels, this would happen so often, here I
will narrate just two incidents.
On one occasion Hadhrat went to a village in the district of
Fatehpur called Alamganj to deliver a speech. After delivering
the speech, at around one or two o’clock at night Hadhrat
requested the locals if one of them could take him on a
motorcycle to the riverbank of Jamna (there use to be a
temporary bridge there), from there he could travel to Banda on
a truck that may be passing by, and teach the students in the
morning. The locals did as they were requested and took
Hadhrat to the riverbank of Jamna which was an uninhabited
place. Hadhrat waited alone the entire night, but no trucks had
passed that way until the morning. When Hadhrat arrived at the
madrassa he said with great grief, I spent the entire night on
the sands of Jamna, I didn’t sleep, nor did I get any transport. I
lost my sleep and I missed my class as well.
Hadhrat was returning from a similar journey at night and
stopped over at the eidgah of Banda city in the hope that a
truck passing by could take him to ‘nine mile’, and either
before or after fajar he could teach his class. However on this
occasion too no transport was available. On his return he said
the entire night I was bitten by mosquitoes in the eidgah, I
couldn’t get any transport and I missed my class as well.
Part three
47 | P a g e
Hadhrat Molana Siddique Ahmad Sahib RA in the eyes of
non Muslims
A considerable amount of literature has been written about
Hadhrat in recent times. Very few people have had that much
amount written about them. Whatever has been written by
authors has been done so on the basis of their personal
experiences. All those who have met Hadhrat acknowledge the
fact that no one can reach the depths of such a diverse and
simple personality. Alhamdulillah I was very close to Hadhrat.
However I too could not gauge the true height of his nobleness.
He was a scholar of Islam, and in this respect was accepted and
considered an important personality amongst other respected
scholars. He was a founder and principal of a madrassa and
because of this he had close contact with teachers, students and
people associated with madaris. He was a famous and well
known Islamic preacher, and thus his presence would enlighten
Islamic conferences and gatherings. The general masses and
important people would refer to him for taweez and request his
duas.
Along with all these qualities he was also bestowed with the
miraculous character that is specific to vicegerents of the
prophets. This is why he was accepted amongst the non
Muslims too. Onlookers have seen such great examples of his
acceptance amongst non Muslims that it will be very difficult
to witness such an incomparable character elsewhere. I will
relay to the readers a few such stories that I have personally
seen and some which I have come to learn through reliable
sources.
A Tablighi ijtema was to take place for the first time in
Hatohra. Preparations for this had begun well in advance. The
eastern portion of the madrassa contained uneven land which
belonged to various people that needed to be levelled. In order
to do this Muslims and non Muslims from Hatohra and nearby
48 | P a g e
villages worked regularly for several days at the fields from
morning till evening. Amongst the people who helped greatly
was the district collector of Ilayha, and Hindus from Purwa and
Duha. Although these people were very strict in their religious
practices, Hadhrat’s personality had a great effect on them.
I have seen several times, that if one of these people were to
meet Hadhrat on the roadside, they would step aside and put
their hands together and with great respect and say “salaam
brother”. Hadhrat too would greet them with a smile and say a
few kind words. When Hadhrat would walk through the
markets of Banda the shopkeepers would either come out or
stand in their shops and greet Hadhrat.
Following the martyrdom of Barbari masjid Hindu-Muslim
relations had been affected everywhere, and forces aiming to
cause divisions amongst the people had succeeded in many
places. However these efforts were not successful in the Hindu
villages around Hatohra. There is a village called Ilayha a few
kilometres away from Hatohra that has large populace of
Thakor (feudal title) Hindus. A worshipper from the temple in
this village reported to the police that Muslims from Hatohra
were preparing to attack Ilayha. The following day the villagers
were surprised to see the presence of PAC (provincial armed
constabulary). After some investigation it came to light that the
arrival of the PAC was instigated by the report of a worshipper
at the temple. First of all the villagers scolded this worshipper
harshly and then they informed senior police officers their
relationship with the people of Hatohra is such that they were
not in danger from each other, and reminded them that Molana
Siddique Sahib resided there too.
I have mentioned a story in the previous article that during the
state of emergency, the district collector of Banda and a
minister from the then congress government wished to obtain a
fatwa from Hadhrat for the permissibility of sterilisation.
Hadhrat had spoken to them in a harsh manner and people
49 | P a g e
feared the government would punish Hadhrat severely, and
take Hadhrat into custody that very night. News of Hadhrat
being in danger was spreading in Banda. That night a group of
fifty selected Hindus that did not even have one Muslim
amongst them paid a visit to the district collector. They told
him they were all Hindus from every political party, not even a
single Muslim was present with them as they prohibited them
from coming and there were plenty more Hindus ready to join
them. If he was going to arrest Hadhrat then he would have to
arrest all fifty of them first. Even if the district collector had it
mind to arrest Hadhrat (according to some reports he did) he
changed his mind. During the state of emergency for non
Muslims to take steps such as this, was only possible because
of the extraordinary love and following of Hadhrat.
It should be borne in mind that this acceptance and following
of Hadhrat was a result of his miraculous character, which did
not have the slightest amount of pretence. Inviters towards
deen need to have these characteristics and there is a great need
for these teachings.
Muslims of various groups acknowledge Hadhrat’s admirable
character and would also have good relations with Hadhrat
regardless of being firm on their difference of opinion
regarding religious matters. The following story of Hadhrat
below highlights this and allows one to gauge just how
effective good character is.
There is a Barelwi madrassa in Banda city; the people
associated with this madrassa are pious in nature and not so
staunch in their beliefs and kept a close connection with a great
saint. I have had no interactions with these people and this is
just my opinion.
On one occasion this madrassa had a conference and invited a
speaker from out of town who was delivering a fiery speech.
During the course of the speech he began to say some
50 | P a g e
inappropriate words regarding Hadhrat, immediately one of the
members of the audience stood up and said “Molana, I am a
committee member of this madrassa, we invited you to speak
about the life of Rasulullah (saw), not about Molana Siddique,
we know more about him than you do”, thereafter he sat down
and the speaker changed the direction of his speech.
The love and acceptance Hadhrat had amongst Muslims and
non Muslims was the result of his strong faith and good
actions. This is always the result when any individual becomes
obedient to Allah; he instils love in the hearts of people for this
individual. Allah (SWT) promises in the Quran:
Finally I request the reader to supplicate forgiveness on behalf
of Hadhrat, furthermore supplicate that Hadhrat’s disciples
become his true representatives. (Ameen)
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