A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar: Islamic Scholar/ Spritual Leader/Academic

Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar (born in1931), also known as Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad is a distinguished Islamic scholar and spiritual leader in India, particularly within the state of Kerala. Born on March 22, 1939, in Kanthapuram, Kozhikode district, he has dedicated his life to the promotion of Islamic education, social welfare, and interfaith harmony.

Aboobacker Musliyar received his early education in traditional Islamic schools and later continued his studies at the prestigious Baqiyath Swalihath in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. He is widely recognized for his deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and spirituality, earning him respect and admiration among the Muslim community in India and beyond.

As the General Secretary of the All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama, Aboobacker Musliyar has played a crucial role in shaping the Sunni Muslim community's religious and social landscape. He is also the Chancellor of the Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya (Sunni Cultural Center) in Kozhikode, an institution he founded in 1978 to promote Islamic education and cultural awareness. The center has since grown to become one of the largest Islamic educational institutions in India, offering a wide range of programs from primary to higher education.

Aboobacker Musliyar is a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence. He has participated in numerous conferences and seminars aimed at fostering mutual understanding and respect among different religious communities. His efforts in this area have been instrumental in promoting communal harmony in a region often marked by religious diversity.

In addition to his educational and interfaith initiatives, Aboobacker Musliyar is deeply involved in social welfare activities. He has established various charitable organizations that provide healthcare, housing, and financial assistance to the underprivileged. His commitment to social justice and humanitarian work has earned him accolades from various quarters.

Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar's life and work stand as a testament to the power of education, compassion, and dialogue in building a more just and harmonious society.

Abdul Hameed Nomani: Islamic scholar, Academic

Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani is a prominent Islamic scholar, author, and TV debater known for his in-depth knowledge of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and his articulate defense of Islamic teachings in contemporary discussions. With a deep commitment to the propagation of authentic Islamic principles, he has become a significant figure in modern Islamic scholarship, especially among those seeking clarity on contemparory religions.

Born and raised in an academic family with a tradition of religious scholarship, Maulana Nomani pursued his religious education in various esteemed institutions, where he studied classical Islamic texts in depth. His knowledge spans a wide range of Islamic sciences, including Tafseer (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Islamic history. Through his scholarly approach, he has gained respect for his emphasis on understanding and interpreting Islam in the light of both classical sources and contemporary challenges.

Maulana Nomani is a prolific author, having written extensively on Islamic topics that encompass both theoretical and practical aspects of Islam. He is also a recognized expert on Hinduism, Hindutva, and the RSS, and has written several books analyzing Hindutva ideology and its key ideologues. Additionally, Maulana Nomani is a renowned scholar in the field of comparative religious studies. His major works include Hindutva: Ahdaaf o Masaail, Savarkar: Fikr o Tahreek – Ek Mutalea, and Hedgewar: Hayat o Fikr.

His works often address the correct understanding of various Islamic practices. His ability to articulate complex Islamic concepts in an easily accessible manner has earned him a wide readership

Apart from his writing, Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani is a well-known television debater, where he represents Islamic viewpoints in debates with scholars and critics from different backgrounds. His calm demeanor, logical reasoning, and profound knowledge have made him a respected figure in these public intellectual exchanges. Through his media presence, he has successfully conveyed Islamic perspectives on contemporary issues, earning admiration for his balanced and thoughtful approach.

Maulana was also general secretary, All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, an umbrella body of Muslim organizations.

Through his scholarship, writings, and media engagements, Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani continues to make valuable contributions to the intellectual and spiritual discourse in India.

Abul Qasim Nomani: Islamic Scholar, Academic

Abul Qasim Nomani (born in 1945) was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a prominent Indian Islamic scholar. He currently serves as the Vice-Chancellor and Sheikh al-Hadith of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most esteemed Islamic seminaries in the world. His contributions to Islamic education and scholarship have earned him a place among the 500 most influential Muslims globally.

Nomani began his formal Islamic education in 1960 at Darul Uloom Mau, progressing to Miftahul Uloom Mau in 1962. A year later, he joined Darul Uloom Deoband for higher studies, completing his graduation in 1967. His scholarly acumen and dedication to Islamic education led to his appointment to Darul Uloom Deoband's Majlis ash-Shura, the governing body, in 1992.

On July 24, 2011, Nomani succeeded Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi as Vice-Chancellor of Darul Uloom Deoband. His leadership has been marked by a focus on preserving the seminary’s rich academic legacy while addressing contemporary challenges. In recognition of his expertise in hadith studies, Nomani was appointed Sheikh al-Hadith at Darul Uloom on October 14, 2020.

Nomani's influence extends beyond his administrative roles, as he continues to shape Islamic thought and education through his teaching and leadership. His prominence reflects his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of Islamic scholarship and fostering the development of future generations of scholars.

Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi: Islamic Scholar

Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi (born in 1963) is an Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic teachings and his strong commitment to the Salafi tradition. Born into a family with a long-standing legacy of religious scholarship, he has dedicated his life to the study, teaching, and propagation of authentic Islamic principles based on the Quran and Sunnah, adhering strictly to the Salafi methodology.

He is known for his scholarly works, which primarily focus on the purification of Islamic thought and practice, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the original teachings of Islam as understood by the early generations of Muslims (the Salaf). His teachings advocate for the rejection of innovations (Bid'ah) and the return to the foundational sources of Islam, stressing the importance of unity in the Muslim ummah and the avoidance of sectarianism.

Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi’s educational journey includes studying under prominent Islamic scholars in various centers of learning. His deep understanding of Arabic, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), hadith (Prophetic traditions), and theology has earned him recognition among both his peers and followers. He is also known for his eloquent and powerful lectures, which blend deep intellectual rigor with spiritual insight.

Aside from his role as a teacher, Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi is also Ameer of Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadees Hind. He has also been involved in community leadership and has worked tirelessly to promote social and moral reforms within the Muslim community

His influence continues to extend far beyond his local community, with a growing following among those seeking to reconnect with the pure, unadulterated teachings of Islam. Through his scholarly and spiritual guidance, Maulana Salafi remains a beacon of light for many Muslims seeking a deeper connection to their faith.

Bahauddin Muhammed Jamaluddin Nadvi: Islamic Scholar, Academic

Bahauddeen Muhammed Jamaluddeen Nadwi (born in 1951) is a prominent Muslim scholar from Kerala, India, known for his significant contributions to literary and historical scholarship. He is one of the founding members of Darul Huda Islamic University, where he currently serves as Vice Chancellor. Nadwi is dedicated to revitalizing and modernizing the traditional Islamic curriculum, aiming to adapt teaching methods to meet contemporary global needs. His work as an Islamic scholar has taken him across the world, where he has lectured extensively.

Born in Kooriyad near Kottakkal in the Malappuram district of Kerala, Nadwi hails from a family with a deep-rooted tradition of scholarship. His father, Muhammad Jamaluddin, was a respected scholar, and his maternal grandfather, Zainuddin bin Ahmed, also known as Thenu Musliyar, was a revered Muslim scholar and Sufi in Kerala. Nadwi's academic journey began with a degree in Arabic Language, 'Afzal Al Ulama,' from the University of Calicut in 1979. He also earned a Diploma in Arabic Language Teaching from the Government of Kerala in 1971.

At the age of 30, Nadwi sought advanced education in North India, enrolling in Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow in 1981. He earned a degree in 'Alimiyya' in Arabic Language and Islamic Studies in 1983, followed by a master's degree in Arabic Literature from Aligarh Muslim University in 1987. His international education included a Da'wa course at Al-Azhar University in Egypt.

Nadwi was mentored by eminent scholars, including Abul Hasan Al Nadwi, Shamsul Ulema E.K Aboobakar Musliyyar, M.D. Sayyid Tantawi (former Rector of Al-Azhar), Ali Jumu’a Muh’d (former Grand Mufti of Egypt), and Saeedu Rahman Al Aa’zmi.

Among his notable works are Inba' al-Ma'arifin bi-Anba' al-Musannifin (Insights into the Lives of Scholars), Tarikh al-Adab al-Arab (History of Arabic Literature), and Mukthar al-Akhlaq wa-Adab (Ethics and Etiquette). Nadwi’s scholarship and dedication continue to influence and inspire generations of students and scholars.

Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi: Islamic scholar, Academic

Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi (born in 1969) is a distinguished Islamic scholar renowned for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, literature, and history. Born into a family rooted in Islamic scholarship, he inherited a rich legacy of learning and spirituality. His early education took place under the tutelage of his father and other eminent scholars, which laid a strong foundation for his future scholarly pursuits.

He pursued advanced studies at the prestigious Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, where he excelled in various Islamic sciences, including Tafsir (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Arabic literature. His dedication to learning and his keen intellect earned him the admiration of his teachers and peers alike.

After completing his studies, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi embarked on a career in teaching and Islamic scholarship. He served as a faculty member at several Islamic institutions, where he contributed significantly to the intellectual and spiritual growth of his students. His eloquence in Arabic and Urdu, coupled with his profound understanding of Islamic teachings, made him a sought-after speaker and teacher.

Throughout his career, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi has been actively involved in various educational and social initiatives aimed at promoting Islamic values and knowledge. He has authored numerous books and articles on Islamic theology, law, and history, which are widely respected in academic and religious circles.

His contributions to Islamic scholarship and his commitment to the education and spiritual development of the Muslim community have earned him a place of honor among contemporary Islamic scholars. Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi continues to inspire and guide the next generation of scholars and students with his wisdom and dedication.

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi: Islamic Scholar, Educationist

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi ((born in 1950) is a renowned Indian Islamic scholar, educationist, and former rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in the world. Born in 1950 in the village of Vastan, Gujarat, Vastanvi has dedicated his life to the promotion of Islamic education and the upliftment of the Muslim community.

Vastanvi pursued his early education at local madrassas before joining the Darul Uloom Deoband, where he excelled in Islamic studies, earning recognition for his deep understanding of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and Tafsir (Quranic exegesis). After completing his studies, he returned to Gujarat, where he became a prominent figure in the field of Islamic education.

In 1981, Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi founded the Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom in Akkalkuwa, Maharashtra, which has grown into a major educational institution under his leadership. The institution offers a blend of traditional Islamic education and modern subjects, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for both religious and secular pursuits. Vastanvi’s vision for integrating modern education with Islamic teachings has made him a pioneer in the field.

In 2011, Vastanvi was appointed as the rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, a position that placed him at the helm of one of the most influential Islamic institutions in the world. However, his tenure was short-lived due to controversies surrounding his views on the socio-political conditions of Muslims in India, leading to his resignation.

Despite the controversies, Vastanvi has remained a respected figure in the Indian Muslim community. His contributions to education and his efforts to promote a progressive vision for Islamic learning continue to be acknowledged and admired. Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi’s legacy is one of dedication to the intellectual and social advancement of the Muslim community in India.

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari: Islamic Scholar

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari, born in 1964 in Kadalundi, Kerala, is a distinguished Sunni Islamic scholar and influential community leader. Hailing from a lineage of scholars that traces its origins to Uzbekistan, he was raised in a family steeped in religious education. His primary education was imparted by his father, Sayyid Ahmed Bukhari, a respected spiritual guide in the region. Bukhari later pursued higher education in Islamic theology, graduating with second rank from Baqiyat Salihat Arabic College in Tamil Nadu.

In 1997, Bukhari founded Ma'din Academy in Malappuram, which has since grown into a significant educational institution serving over 22,000 students across 28 campuses. Under his leadership, Ma'din Academy has flourished, offering a wide range of programs from primary education to postgraduate studies, with a focus on both Islamic and contemporary education. His global influence is also reflected in his extensive travels and lectures on educational and social issues.

Bukhari holds several key leadership roles, including serving as the Joint Secretary of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama and General Secretary of Kerala Muslim Jamaat, an umbrella organization representing various Muslim groups in Kerala. He is also a member of the Muslim 500, a recognition of the most influential Muslims worldwide, and manages the international journal Armonia, which promotes pluralism and holistic education.

He has been a prominent representative at global forums, including the G20 Interfaith Forum, and led India's delegation to the Vatican for interfaith dialogues. Notable achievements include organizing the annual Ramadan Peace Conference and initiating the Knowledge Hunt, a program that exposes scholars to diverse cultural and religious destinations worldwide. Bukhari’s work in interfaith dialogue and education continues to have a profound impact both in India and internationally.

Kalbe Jawad: Islamic Scholar, Community leader

Maulana Kalbe Jawad (borne in 1956) is a prominent Shia cleric, scholar, and community leader in India, known for his influential role in religious, social, and political spheres. Born on January 15, 1956, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he comes from a distinguished family of scholars, including his father, Ayatollah Maulana Kalbe Abid, a revered figure in the Shia Muslim community.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad received his early religious education in Lucknow, a city renowned for its rich Islamic heritage, particularly within the Shia community. He furthered his studies in Islamic theology and jurisprudence at the prestigious Hawza Ilmiyya in Qom, Iran, where he deepened his understanding of Shia thought and philosophy. His education and background have made him a key religious authority for Shia Muslims, both in India and abroad.

As the Imam of the Asafi Mosque in Lucknow, Maulana Kalbe Jawad has been a vocal advocate for the rights and welfare of the Shia community. He has led numerous initiatives to promote social justice, education, and healthcare among his followers. His leadership extends beyond religious duties; he has been actively involved in addressing issues like communal harmony, sectarian violence, and the preservation of religious freedom in India.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad is also known for his participation in interfaith dialogues, where he promotes unity among different religious communities. His efforts to foster understanding between Shia and Sunni Muslims have been particularly noteworthy, as he consistently advocates for peace and cooperation within the broader Muslim Ummah.

In addition to his religious and social activism, Maulana Kalbe Jawad has been a strong voice against the persecution of Shia Muslims and other minority groups in India. He has organized and led protests, raising awareness about the challenges faced by his community and advocating for their rights.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad’s influence extends to the global Shia community, where he is respected for his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to justice. His work continues to inspire millions, making him one of the most important religious figures in contemporary India.

Kaleem Siddiqui: Islamic Scholar and Preacher)
Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui (born in 1957) in Phulat village, Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, is an Indian Islamic scholar, preacher, and educationist. A disciple of Muhammad Zakariyya al-Kandhlawi and Abul Hasan Ali Hasani Nadwi, Siddiqui is also associated with the Tablighi Jamaat. He was raised in a family of devout Muslims; his father, Haji Muhammad Amin, was a zamindar and follower of Mahmud Hasan Deobandi. Siddiqui received early education at Faizul Islam Madrasa (now Jamia Imam Waliullah), memorizing portions of the Quran during his schooling. He completed his B.Sc. from Meerut College and was ranked 57th in the All India Pre-Medical Test but chose to pursue Islamic studies at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama instead of a medical career.

Since the 1980s, Siddiqui has served as the administrator of Jamia Imam Waliullah Islamia in Phulat. He is also the president of the Global Peace Center and Jamia Waliullah Trust. In 2014, Siddiqui remarked on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's shift in rhetoric, describing him as "more mellowed and responsible."
In September 2021, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested Siddiqui, accusing him of leading a large-scale religious conversion network. Authorities alleged that the network, funded by Gulf countries and the UK, was responsible for converting around 500,000 people to Islam. Siddiqui denied the allegations, asserting that he only facilitated legal formalities for willing converts. His arrest drew widespread criticism from the Muslim community, with protests erupting at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and demands for his release by various organizations. However, Hindu nationalist groups praised the arrest as a necessary step against forced conversions.

In April 2023, the Allahabad High Court granted Siddiqui bail after 18 months in custody.On September 10, 2024, a special NIA court convicted him and others, including Umar Gautam, for their involvement in a pan-India illegal conversion network. The following day, an NIA-ATS court sentenced Siddiqui and 11 others to life imprisonment. However his lawyer has announced plans to challenge the verdict, citing weak evidence and legal inconsistencies.